Mountain Valley Dam 1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Mountain Valley Dam 1, also known as Mosby Mountain Subdivision, is a privately owned dam located in Albemarle, Virginia.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Designed by Collins Engineering, Inc., this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a storage capacity of 143 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 67 acre-feet, the dam is situated on a tributary of Biscuit Run.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Mountain Valley Dam 1 has been deemed to be in satisfactory condition during its last inspection in September 2020. Although the hazard potential is currently undetermined, the dam's emergency action plan and risk assessment status are not specified. With its location within a beautiful natural setting and its purpose for recreation, this dam provides both a functional and scenic attraction to water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.

Overall, Mountain Valley Dam 1 stands as a testament to successful private ownership and management of a crucial water resource infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, this dam serves as a vital piece of the puzzle in ensuring water availability for recreational activities in the region. Its design, construction, and ongoing maintenance highlight the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

trib. Biscuit Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

143

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

28
       
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.