Ragged Mountain Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Ragged Mountain Dam, located in Albemarle, Virginia, is a vital piece of infrastructure owned and operated by a public utility.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 132.5 feet and serves primarily for water supply purposes, with a storage capacity of 8,243 acre-feet. The dam's condition was assessed as satisfactory during its last inspection in July 2020, despite being classified as having a high hazard potential.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Ragged Mountain Dam plays a crucial role in ensuring water security for the region. With a normal storage capacity of 5,284 acre-feet and a surface area of 170 acres, this dam serves as a key component in water resource management in the area. While it meets regulatory standards and undergoes regular inspections, the dam's high hazard potential highlights the importance of continued monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks.

As an essential part of the water supply infrastructure in Albemarle, Virginia, Ragged Mountain Dam serves as a critical resource for climate enthusiasts and water resource managers alike. Its strategic location and significant storage capacity make it a key player in ensuring water security for the region. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's satisfactory condition and regular inspections demonstrate a commitment to maintaining its integrity and safeguarding the surrounding community from potential risks associated with dam failure.

Dam Length

780

Dam Height

132.5

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

170

Hydraulic Height

132.5

Drainage Area

1.84

Nid Storage

8243

Structural Height

132.5

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

133
       
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.