South River Dam #4 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

South River Dam #4, also known as Lofton Lake, is a crucial infrastructure owned by the local government of Augusta, Virginia.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 56 feet and serves primarily for flood risk reduction along the Pine Run river. With a storage capacity of 890 acre-feet and a surface area of 7 acres, this dam plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, South River Dam #4 is regularly inspected to ensure its structural integrity and overall condition. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition is currently rated as satisfactory. With a history of successful risk management measures in place, the dam continues to meet the necessary guidelines for emergency action plans, ensuring the safety of nearby residents and recreational users who benefit from its presence.

Situated within the Norfolk District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, South River Dam #4 not only serves as a flood risk reduction measure but also provides recreational opportunities for the community. With its strategic location and essential role in water resource management, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable infrastructure in the face of climate change and increasing water challenges.

Dam Length

720

Dam Height

56

River Or Stream

PINE RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7

Hydraulic Height

56

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

890

Structural Height

56

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

56
       
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.