Scogo Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Albemarle, Virginia, the Scogo Dam is a privately owned earth dam that spans the Middle Branch of Hardware River.


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Summary

With a height of 24 feet and a storage capacity of 173 acre-feet, the primary purpose of this dam is for recreation. While the dam is state-regulated and has undergone state permitting, inspection, and enforcement, its hazard potential is currently labeled as undetermined.

The Scogo Dam, managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, serves as a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Although the dam's condition assessment is not rated, its safety and emergency protocols are being continuously evaluated to meet guidelines and ensure the protection of surrounding areas in the event of a hazard. While the exact year of completion and detailed structural information are not provided, the dam's presence adds to the natural beauty and water resource management in the region.

Overall, the Scogo Dam offers a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and serves as a vital structure for water storage and recreational purposes in Albemarle, Virginia. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of carefully managing and monitoring dams like Scogo becomes increasingly crucial for sustainable water management practices and the preservation of natural ecosystems.

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

Middle Branch of Hardware River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

173

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

24
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.