Sweet Briar College - Upper Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Sweet Briar College - Upper Dam, located in Amherst, Virginia, serves as a vital resource for irrigation and recreation purposes.
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Summary
Owned privately, this earth dam stands at a height of 25.4 feet with a storage capacity of 66 acre-feet. The dam, situated on TR-WILLIAMS CREEK, plays a crucial role in providing water for agricultural needs and leisure activities in the area.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam has a low hazard potential and is deemed to be in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2012. With a drainage area of 0.1 square miles and a surface area of 4.3 acres, the Sweet Briar College - Upper Dam contributes to the local ecosystem and water management efforts. Despite its modest size, the dam plays a significant role in water conservation and environmental stewardship in the region.
With its picturesque location and functional design, the Sweet Briar College - Upper Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management. As a focal point for both irrigation and recreational activities, this dam underscores the intersection of human needs and environmental conservation in the face of climate change challenges. Its continued maintenance and oversight ensure a reliable water supply for the community while preserving the natural beauty of the surrounding area.
Dam Length |
340 |
Dam Height |
25.4 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WILLIAMS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
25.4 |
Drainage Area |
0.1 |
Nid Storage |
66 |
Structural Height |
25.4 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Piney River At Piney River
|
26cfs |
James River At Holcomb Rock
|
935cfs |
Tye River Near Lovingston
|
34cfs |
James River At Bent Creek
|
1120cfs |
Pedlar River At Forest Road Near Buena Vista
|
12cfs |
Maury River Near Buena Vista
|
131cfs |
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.
Sweet Briar College - Upper Dam