Lower Ragged Mountain Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Lower Ragged Mountain Dam, also known as Charlottesville Reservoir, is a gravity dam located in Albemarle, Virginia, along Moores Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Owned by a public utility, this dam serves as a crucial water supply source for the region. Standing at a height of 67 feet with a length of 400 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 1,479 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 54 acres. Despite being classified as having an undetermined hazard potential, the dam is in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2010.
Designed by Schnabel Engineering, LLC, Lower Ragged Mountain Dam plays a significant role in water resource management in the area. It is not regulated by the state and has not undergone any major modifications since its construction. The dam's primary purpose is water supply, and it has been serving the community effectively for years. While the last inspection was conducted in 2010, with an inspection frequency of 0, there is a need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and efficiency of this vital infrastructure.
With a rich history and a strategic location, Lower Ragged Mountain Dam stands as a testament to engineering excellence and environmental stewardship. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of well-maintained dams like this one cannot be understated. It is essential for authorities and stakeholders to prioritize the upkeep and monitoring of such critical infrastructure to safeguard water supply and ensure resilience in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
67 |
River Or Stream |
MOORES CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
54 |
Hydraulic Height |
67 |
Drainage Area |
1.83 |
Nid Storage |
1479 |
Structural Height |
67 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
67 |
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.
Lower Ragged Mountain Dam
Tonsler Park
Jordan Avenue Park
McGuffey Park
Market Street Park
Court Square Park