Bellair Farm Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Bellair Farm Dam, located in Albemarle, Virginia, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

The dam, with a height of 20 feet and a length of 350 feet, holds a storage capacity of 51 acre-feet for tributary Murphy Creek. Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam is regulated by the state and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with guidelines.

Although the hazard potential of Bellair Farm Dam is currently classified as undetermined and its condition is not rated, the structure meets state permitting and enforcement requirements. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are yet to be determined, indicating a need for further evaluation and preparedness. With its picturesque location and potential for outdoor activities, the dam presents an opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and engage with the natural environment.

Despite its modest size and undetermined risk level, Bellair Farm Dam offers a tranquil setting for recreational enjoyment and serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and monitoring water infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the careful management and assessment of dams like Bellair Farm Dam are essential to ensure the safety of communities and the preservation of valuable ecosystems. Enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate resilience can appreciate the role that structures like Bellair Farm Dam play in balancing human recreation with environmental stewardship.

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

trib. Murphy Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

51

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.