South River Dam #24 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

South River Dam #24, also known as Happy Hollow, is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Augusta, Virginia.


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Summary

Owned by the local government and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and spans 490 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 330 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.13 square miles, the dam serves to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Despite its low hazard potential, South River Dam #24 is maintained in satisfactory condition, as indicated by its last inspection in March 2019. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 13 acre-feet and plays a crucial role in managing the flow of TR-BACK CREEK. While specific details regarding the dam's construction date and spillway type are not provided, its strategic location and design contribute to the overall flood risk reduction efforts in the region.

With its solid structural integrity and history of successful flood risk mitigation, South River Dam #24 serves as a key component in the water resource management strategy of Augusta, Virginia. As climate change continues to impact precipitation patterns and water levels, the importance of well-maintained dams like South River Dam #24 cannot be overstated in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from the threats of flooding.

Dam Length

490

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR-BACK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

1.13

Nid Storage

330

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.