Happy Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wildon Grove Dam Carroll Dam
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Happy Creek Dam, located in Albemarle, Virginia, is a state-regulated structure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
This earthen dam, standing at 18 feet tall and stretching 400 feet in length, serves primarily for recreational purposes, including fish and wildlife pond activities. With a storage capacity of 125 acre-feet, the dam overlooks the serene waters of Happy Creek, offering a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy.
Despite its undetermined hazard potential and unrated condition assessment, Happy Creek Dam remains a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking relaxation and nature exploration. While the dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks detailed risk assessment measures, it continues to provide a peaceful environment for visitors to connect with the surrounding landscape. As an integral part of the local ecosystem, the dam plays a vital role in supporting wildlife habitats and recreational activities along Happy Creek.
With its picturesque location and recreational focus, Happy Creek Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resources in fostering community engagement and environmental stewardship. While the dam's risk assessment and emergency preparedness measures may need further attention, its role in promoting outdoor recreation and wildlife conservation highlights the ongoing need for sustainable water management practices in the region. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Happy Creek Dam offers a unique opportunity to appreciate the intersection of human engineering and natural beauty in a tranquil setting along Happy Creek.
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
HAPPY CREEK |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
125 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Happy Creek Dam