Lake Independence Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Independence Dam, located in Westmoreland, Virginia, is a privately owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and spans 600 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 2537 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Cold Harbor Creek and serves as a significant water resource for the surrounding area.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, the Lake Independence Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. With a hazard potential rated as significant, the dam's condition was last assessed as satisfactory in November 2019. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide essential recreational opportunities and water storage for the community, showcasing the importance of proper management and maintenance of water resources in the face of climate challenges.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Lake Independence Dam a fascinating example of human engineering meeting natural elements. With its scenic reservoir, diverse wildlife habitat, and crucial water storage capacity, the dam serves as a reminder of the intricate balance between human needs and environmental stewardship. As climate change impacts water availability and quality, the management and maintenance of structures like Lake Independence Dam become increasingly vital in ensuring sustainable water resource management for future generations.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

COLD HARBOR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

93

Drainage Area

1.27

Nid Storage

2537

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

13
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.