Mountain Valley Dam 4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Mountain Valley Dam 4, located in Albemarle, Virginia, is a private dam primarily utilized for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 28 feet with a length of 200 feet, this earth dam holds a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet, making it a significant water resource in the area. The dam is situated near the tributary Biscuit Creek and is under state regulation by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.

Despite its importance for recreation and water storage, Mountain Valley Dam 4 is currently assessed to be in poor condition, with an undetermined hazard potential. The last inspection in January 2021 highlighted the need for maintenance and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam. With a history dating back to 2005 and ongoing state oversight, the dam's structural stability and operational efficiency are crucial considerations for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, it is essential to monitor the condition and maintenance of Mountain Valley Dam 4 to prevent potential risks and ensure the sustainable use of this vital infrastructure. With its location in a scenic area near Biscuit Creek, the dam provides not only recreational opportunities but also serves as a key water storage facility in Albemarle, Virginia. By staying informed and advocating for proper management and upkeep of Mountain Valley Dam 4, enthusiasts can contribute to the preservation of this essential water resource for future generations.

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

trib. Biscuit Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.5

Nid Storage

60

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.