Chesapeake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 27, 2025

Chesapeake Dam, located in Amelia, Virginia, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Standing at 24 feet tall with a length of 225 feet, this earth dam provides a maximum storage capacity of 105 acre-feet. Despite being classified as having an undetermined hazard potential and not yet rated for condition assessment, the dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia.

With its close proximity to the Norfolk District, Chesapeake Dam holds significant importance in managing water resources in the region. Although the dam has not undergone recent modifications or inspections, its presence plays a crucial role in supporting irrigation needs and recreational activities in the area. As a privately owned structure, it is essential for the owners to ensure proper maintenance and adherence to regulatory guidelines to prevent any potential risks associated with the dam.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Chesapeake Dam can appreciate its role in providing essential irrigation water and supporting recreational activities in Amelia, Virginia. Despite its current condition assessment not being rated, the dam's significance in the region underscores the importance of proper maintenance and regulatory compliance to mitigate any potential hazards. As a privately owned structure, ongoing monitoring and adherence to safety protocols are crucial to ensure the continued functionality and safety of Chesapeake Dam for the community and environment it serves.

Dam Length

225

Dam Height

24

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

105

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

24
       
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.