Hurts Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Glenmore # 8 Dam Edgehill Farm Ne Dam
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Hurts Dam, also known as Clifton Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Albemarle, Virginia, along the Rivanna River.
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Summary
Designed by Shimp Engineering, P.C., this earth dam stands at a height of 41 feet and stretches 204 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 303 acre-feet, it primarily serves as a recreational site for water enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Hurts Dam has been rated as having a low hazard potential and its condition remains unrated as of the last assessment in January 2020. Despite its recreational purpose, the dam is subject to state regulations, including regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance. Situated within the Baltimore District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Hurts Dam stands as a testament to responsible water resource management in the region.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hurts Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and natural ecosystems. Its presence along the scenic Rivanna River not only provides recreational opportunities but also underscores the importance of sustainable dam management in safeguarding water resources for future generations. As a privately owned structure with state oversight, Hurts Dam exemplifies the balance between human recreation and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate dynamics.
Dam Length |
204 |
Dam Height |
41 |
River Or Stream |
RIVANNA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17 |
Hydraulic Height |
41 |
Drainage Area |
2.15 |
Nid Storage |
303 |
Structural Height |
41 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
41 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
N F Rivanna River Near Earlysville
|
123cfs |
Rivanna River At Palmyra
|
520cfs |
Mechums River Near White Hall
|
145cfs |
Moormans River Near Free Union
|
67cfs |
Hardware River Bl Briery Run Nr Scottsville
|
124cfs |
James River At Scottsville
|
3600cfs |
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.
Hurts Dam