Murcielago Exempt Dams (11) Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Murcielago Exempt Dams (11) in Albemarle, Virginia, are privately owned structures regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

These dams, located on a tributary of Briery Creek, serve the primary purpose of irrigation. The earth dams have a height of 22 feet and a storage capacity of 67 acre-feet.

While the hazard potential of these dams is currently undetermined, they have not been rated for their overall condition. The last inspection date is unknown, but the inspection frequency is set at once per year. Emergency action plans and risk assessments have not been prepared or updated for these dams, highlighting a potential area for improvement in ensuring their safety and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Murcielago Exempt Dams (11) present an intriguing case study of privately owned irrigation structures subject to state regulation in Virginia. With their location in Albemarle County and proximity to Briery Creek, these dams offer a glimpse into the complexities of managing water resources in a changing environment. Further assessment and planning may be needed to enhance the safety and sustainability of these dams in light of potential risks and hazards.

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

trib. Briery Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

22

Nid Storage

67

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

22
       
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.