Spring Valley Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Spring Valley Dam, located in Albemarle, Virginia, is a key water resource infrastructure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at a height of 29 feet and spanning 430 feet in length, serves primarily for irrigation purposes along Perry Creek. With a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet and a surface area of 3.5 acres, the dam plays a vital role in ensuring water supply for agricultural activities in the region.
Despite its importance for irrigation, the condition assessment of Spring Valley Dam remains unrated, with an undetermined hazard potential. The dam has not been evaluated for emergency preparedness measures such as an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) or inundation maps. The structure also lacks a designated risk assessment and management plan, raising potential concerns for the safety and resilience of the dam in the face of climate change impacts and extreme weather events. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, there is a need to monitor and advocate for the proper maintenance and assessment of this critical infrastructure to ensure its long-term sustainability and safety.
With the dam falling under the jurisdiction of the Department of Conservation and Recreation and receiving state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement, stakeholders must work collaboratively to address the gaps in emergency preparedness and risk management at Spring Valley Dam. By engaging with local authorities and water resource agencies, enthusiasts can contribute to the development of comprehensive safety measures, emergency response plans, and risk mitigation strategies for the dam. Together, we can enhance the resilience of this essential water resource infrastructure in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Dam Length |
430 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
Perry Creek |
Surface Area |
3.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Nid Storage |
55 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rockfish River Near Greenfield
|
31cfs |
South River Near Waynesboro
|
34cfs |
South River Near Dooms
|
64cfs |
Mechums River Near White Hall
|
33cfs |
Moormans River Near Free Union
|
13cfs |
James River At Scottsville
|
1460cfs |
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.
Spring Valley Dam
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