Lower Sherando Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lower Sherando Dam, located in Augusta, Virginia, is a Federal-owned structure managed by the USDA Forest Service.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Completed in 1934, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 38 feet and has a hydraulic height of 30 feet, serving primarily for recreational purposes including fish and wildlife pond activities. With a storage capacity of 393 acre-feet, the dam poses a high hazard potential due to its location on the North Fork Back Creek.

The dam's controlled spillway, slide gates, and high hazard potential make it a crucial structure for water resource management. Despite not being state-regulated, Lower Sherando Dam's risk assessment is ranked as very high, emphasizing the need for proper monitoring and emergency preparedness. The dam's association with the Forest Service highlights its significance in maintaining ecological balance and providing recreational opportunities for visitors in the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lower Sherando Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam engineering and management. Its historical significance, high hazard potential, and recreational value make it a unique site for understanding the intersection of water resource conservation and public enjoyment. As debates around dam safety and environmental impact continue, Lower Sherando Dam stands as a testament to the delicate balance between human intervention and natural ecosystems in the face of climate change.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

335

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

N FORK BACK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

4

Nid Storage

393

Structural Height

38

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

38
       
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.