Plain Dealing Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Plain Dealing Dam, located in Albemarle, Virginia, is a privately owned structure with a height of 21.5 feet and a storage capacity of 148.18 acre-feet.


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Summary

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state. While its hazard potential and condition assessment are currently undetermined and not rated, the dam meets state jurisdiction requirements and is equipped with emergency action plans.

Despite lacking specific information on its design and construction years, Plain Dealing Dam serves a vital purpose in water resource management within the region. With a normal storage capacity of 62.62 acre-feet and a surface area of 10.1 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage. While it may not have a designated primary purpose listed, the dam's presence contributes to the overall water infrastructure and environmental protection efforts in the area.

As an active structure within the Norfolk District, Plain Dealing Dam's impact on the local ecosystem and water flow cannot be understated. With a latitude of 37.8655 and a longitude of -78.5338, the dam's location further emphasizes its significance in managing water resources in Virginia. While more information is needed on its construction and operational history, the dam stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between private ownership and state regulation in maintaining water security and climate resilience.

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

21.5

Surface Area

10.1

Hydraulic Height

21.5

Nid Storage

148.18

Structural Height

21.5

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

22
       
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.