Murcielago Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Murcielago Lake Dam, located in Albemarle, Virginia, is a private-owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and stretches 700 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 1300 acre-feet. The primary purpose of the dam is for recreation, providing a surface area of 40 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as boating and fishing on Briery Creek.
Despite being last inspected in 1991, the dam's hazard potential is currently undetermined, with a condition assessment that is not rated. The emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk assessment information are also unavailable, leaving the dam's risk management measures unclear. With Denver Riggleman as the representative for the area, further updates on the dam's condition and safety protocols may be necessary to ensure the protection of surrounding communities and the preservation of this water resource for future generations.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Murcielago Lake Dam to be an intriguing subject of study, given its unique design and purpose in the Virginia landscape. As efforts continue to assess and manage the risks associated with the dam, there is an opportunity for researchers and policymakers to collaborate on strategies for ensuring the safety and sustainability of this important recreational resource. By addressing issues such as inspection frequency, emergency preparedness, and risk mitigation, stakeholders can work towards safeguarding Murcielago Lake Dam and promoting responsible stewardship of water resources in the region.
Dam Length |
700 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
Briery Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
40 |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Nid Storage |
1300 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Hardware River Bl Briery Run Nr Scottsville
|
52cfs |
James River At Scottsville
|
1470cfs |
Rivanna River At Palmyra
|
175cfs |
Slate River Near Arvonia
|
68cfs |
Mechums River Near White Hall
|
38cfs |
Moormans River Near Free Union
|
17cfs |
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.
Murcielago Lake Dam
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