Upper North River #77 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Upper North River #77, also known as Hearthstone Lake Dam, is a vital structure in Augusta, Virginia, owned by the local government for flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Designed by Schnabel Engineering Associates, this earth dam stands at a height of 107.3 feet and has a storage capacity of 2970 acre-feet. Situated on the Little River, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Upper North River #77 has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed as satisfactory in condition. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 150 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 12.3 acres, serving a drainage area of 15.8 square miles. With regular inspections and enforcement measures in place, this dam is a key component in the region's water resource management and climate resilience efforts.

With its strategic location and design, Upper North River #77 stands as a testament to effective flood risk reduction infrastructure in Virginia. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of structures like this dam in protecting communities and ecosystems from the threats of extreme weather events cannot be overstated. As enthusiasts in water resource and climate management, understanding the significance of dams like Upper North River #77 is crucial for advancing sustainable practices and resilience in the face of a changing climate.

Dam Length

705

Dam Height

107.3

River Or Stream

LITTLE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12.3

Drainage Area

15.8

Nid Storage

2970

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

107
       
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.