Colt Bower Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Leake Lane Dam Fluvanna County Dam #4
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Colt Bower Dam, located in Albemarle, Virginia, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a height of 26 feet and a storage capacity of 66.25 acre-feet, this dam provides essential water storage for the area, with a normal storage capacity of 45.67 acre-feet and a surface area of 5.19 acres. The dam is regulated by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and is subject to regular inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and reliability.
Despite its importance in water management, the condition assessment of Colt Bower Dam is currently listed as 'Not Rated,' with an undetermined hazard potential. However, the dam has an emergency action plan (EAP) in place, although details on its preparation and adherence to guidelines are not specified. The dam's inspection frequency is set at one, indicating a commitment to regular monitoring and maintenance to address any potential risks or issues that may arise.
As a key component of the water infrastructure in the area, Colt Bower Dam serves as a reminder of the importance of proper management and maintenance of dams for water resource conservation and climate adaptation. With its strategic location and storage capacity, this dam plays a vital role in ensuring water security for the community and highlights the need for ongoing risk assessment and management to safeguard against potential hazards and ensure long-term resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.
Dam Length |
280 |
Dam Height |
26 |
Surface Area |
5.19 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
66.25 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rivanna River At Palmyra
|
520cfs |
Hardware River Bl Briery Run Nr Scottsville
|
124cfs |
N F Rivanna River Near Earlysville
|
123cfs |
James River At Scottsville
|
3600cfs |
Mechums River Near White Hall
|
145cfs |
Moormans River Near Free Union
|
67cfs |
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.
Colt Bower Dam