Spencer Young Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dover Dam Edgeworth Farm North Dam
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Spencer Young Dam, located in Albemarle, Virginia, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 52.2 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 40 acre-feet. With a hydraulic height of 29 feet, the dam serves an important role in water resource management in the area.
Despite being currently rated as 'Undetermined' in terms of hazard potential and 'Not Rated' in condition assessment, Spencer Young Dam undergoes regular inspections with a frequency of once per year. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment remain unspecified, suggesting a need for further evaluation and management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.
As a part of the Baltimore District under the US Army Corps of Engineers, Spencer Young Dam plays a crucial role in the local water infrastructure. With its location in a climate-sensitive region, the dam's management and maintenance are essential in the face of changing weather patterns and the potential for extreme events. Climate and water resource enthusiasts would find Spencer Young Dam to be a fascinating case study in the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and environmental stewardship.
Dam Height |
29 |
Surface Area |
4 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Nid Storage |
52.2 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
N F Rivanna River Near Earlysville
|
123cfs |
Rapidan River Near Ruckersville
|
117cfs |
Moormans River Near Free Union
|
67cfs |
Mechums River Near White Hall
|
145cfs |
Robinson River Near Locust Dale
|
202cfs |
Rivanna River At Palmyra
|
520cfs |
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.
Spencer Young Dam