Chopin Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Blandemar Dam Red Hill Quarry Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Chopin 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 25 feet high, was primarily designed for recreation purposes, with a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a surface area of 4 acres. The dam is situated on a tributary of the North Fork Hardware River and falls under the jurisdiction of the state, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement managed by state agencies.
Despite its undetermined hazard potential and unrated condition assessment, Chopin Dam remains a significant feature in the region, offering recreational opportunities for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam has not undergone recent modifications or inspections, and emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and inundation maps are not currently in place. However, its presence contributes to the natural landscape and provides a source of enjoyment for visitors seeking outdoor activities near the river.
As an essential component of the water infrastructure in the area, Chopin Dam serves as a focal point for environmental stewardship and conservation efforts. With its historical significance and potential for future recreational development, this earth dam represents a unique intersection of human ingenuity and natural beauty. For enthusiasts passionate about water resources and climate, Chopin Dam offers a glimpse into the importance of sustainable dam management and the integration of recreational facilities within the natural ecosystem.
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
trib. North Fork Hardware River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
25 |
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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