WSSC operates a small visitor's center adjacent to Brighton Dam. Nearby are grassy fields, play equipment and picnic grounds. WSSC Watershed Patrol Officer Tony Frye has witnessed an animal population explosion in recent years. There are even a pair of nesting bald eagles. Although the eagles' nesting area is off limits to visitors, the birds can often be seen gliding high overhead.
Energy is another component of Brighton Dam.
In addition, this small hydroelectric plant generates approximately 1,600,000 kilowatt hours per year-enough power to supply 115 houses. The electricity is sold to the Baltimore Gas and Electric Company with WSSC receiving a percentage of the revenue. Brighton Dam is a man-made wonder shaped by nature into a wonderful place to visit. It replaced a miniature dam of the same design at Northwest Branch near Four Corners, built in 1930. Seven silt valves located at various depths are opened periodically to keep dirt from filling in the reservoir.