Pounding Brook Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Pounding Brook Dam, located in Albemarle, Virginia, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at 33 feet tall, serves the primary purpose of irrigation with a storage capacity of 48 acre-feet. The dam is situated on a tributary of Broad Axe Creek and falls under the jurisdiction of the state, with regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.
Despite its modest size, Pounding Brook Dam plays a crucial role in supporting agricultural activities in the region by providing water for irrigation. The dam's hazard potential is currently labeled as "Undetermined," with a condition assessment of "Not Rated." Emergency action plans have not been prepared or updated, indicating a potential area for improvement in terms of risk management and preparedness. The dam has not been modified in recent years, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued functionality and safety.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intricate workings of dams and their impact on local ecosystems will find Pounding Brook Dam to be a fascinating case study. With its connections to irrigation practices and the surrounding waterways, this dam serves as a vital piece of infrastructure in the region. As efforts to address climate change and water resource management continue to evolve, understanding the role of structures like Pounding Brook Dam becomes increasingly important in ensuring sustainable water use and conservation practices.
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
trib. Broad Axe Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
33 |
Nid Storage |
48 |
Structural Height |
33 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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