Van Clief Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Apsara Farm North Dam Coleman Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Van Clief Dam, located in Albemarle County, Virginia, is a private earth dam primarily used for irrigation purposes.
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Summary
With a height of 25 feet and a length of 200 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 74 acre-feet, making it an important resource for water management in the area. Situated on a tributary of Ballinger Creek, the dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia.
Despite being categorized as having an undetermined hazard potential and not yet assessed for condition, Van Clief Dam plays a crucial role in supporting fish and wildlife ponds, as well as providing irrigation for agricultural activities in the region. Although details on the year of completion and current condition are not available, the dam's presence signifies the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in this area. With its location in a state-regulated jurisdiction, the dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality.
In the absence of information on emergency action plans and risk assessments, it is clear that Van Clief Dam is a significant infrastructure for water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates to monitor closely. As a key component in the local water system, the dam serves as a vital resource for irrigation and wildlife support, emphasizing the interconnectedness of water management and environmental conservation efforts in the region. Further studies and assessments may be necessary to fully understand the dam's impact and potential risks in the face of changing climate conditions.
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
trib. Ballinger Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
74 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James River At Scottsville
|
1470cfs |
Hardware River Bl Briery Run Nr Scottsville
|
52cfs |
Rockfish River Near Greenfield
|
33cfs |
Slate River Near Arvonia
|
68cfs |
Mechums River Near White Hall
|
38cfs |
Rivanna River At Palmyra
|
175cfs |
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.
Van Clief Dam