Crown Orchard Upper Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Crown Orchard Upper Dam in Albemarle, Virginia, is a state-regulated earth dam standing at a height of 38 feet along a tributary of Stillhouse Creek.


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Summary

With a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. Despite its undetermined hazard potential and not yet rated condition, the Department of Conservation and Recreation ensures regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to maintain its safety and integrity.

Located in a picturesque setting, the Crown Orchard Upper Dam serves as a vital structure for water supply and flood control in the region. Its presence underscores the importance of proper dam management and the need for comprehensive risk assessment and emergency preparedness. With the involvement of state agencies and adherence to regulatory guidelines, this dam continues to fulfill its purpose effectively while ensuring the safety of surrounding communities and the environment.

As a water resource and climate enthusiast, the Crown Orchard Upper Dam offers a fascinating case study in dam construction and management. Its strategic location, design specifications, and regulatory oversight provide valuable insights into the intersection of infrastructure development, environmental conservation, and public safety. By staying informed about the latest updates and assessments related to this dam, enthusiasts can deepen their understanding of water resource dynamics and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

trib. Stillhouse Creek Creek

Hydraulic Height

38

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

38

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

38
       
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.