Cool Stream Farm West Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Cool Stream Farm West Dam, located in Albemarle, Virginia, is a privately owned earth dam along Elk Run with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at 17 feet in height and spanning 250 feet in length, this dam offers a surface area of 3.45 acres and a storage capacity of 99 acre-feet. While the hazard potential and condition assessment remain undetermined and not rated, the state regulatory agency, Department of Conservation and Recreation, ensures that the dam is permitted, inspected, and enforced for safety.

Despite lacking certain key data such as the year of completion and drainage area, Cool Stream Farm West Dam provides a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy recreational activities. With its location in the Baltimore District and under the jurisdiction of the state of Virginia, this dam serves as a tranquil spot for outdoor enthusiasts to appreciate the beauty of nature while also highlighting the importance of proper dam management and regulation. While the risk assessment and emergency action plan details are currently unavailable, the dam's strategic location and design make it a notable feature in the region.

For those interested in exploring water resource management and climate adaptation strategies, Cool Stream Farm West Dam presents an intriguing case study. The dam's earth construction, combined with its recreational purpose, offers a unique perspective on balancing human enjoyment with environmental conservation. As efforts to assess and improve the dam's safety continue, there is a growing opportunity to engage with stakeholders and policymakers in enhancing resilience against potential hazards. Overall, Cool Stream Farm West Dam serves as a compelling example of the intersection between water infrastructure, climate resilience, and recreational benefits in the dynamic landscape of Virginia.

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

Elk Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.45

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

99

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

17
       
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.