Elizabeth Hearn Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Elizabeth Hearn Dam, located in Augusta, Virginia, is a privately owned structure that plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resiliency in the region.


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Summary

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this dam is regulated and inspected by the state to ensure its safety and functionality. With a height of 20.5 feet and a storage capacity of 217.22 acre-feet, this dam provides essential water storage and flood protection for the surrounding area.

Despite being classified as "Undetermined" in terms of hazard potential and "Not Rated" in condition assessment, Elizabeth Hearn Dam remains a key piece of infrastructure for the community. Emergency action plans are in place, and inspections are conducted regularly to monitor the dam's integrity. With a primary purpose that is not specified, this dam serves multiple functions such as water storage, flood control, and possibly hydropower generation. As a non-USACE structure, Elizabeth Hearn Dam contributes to the overall water management system in the region.

In the event of a potential emergency, it is essential for stakeholders to stay updated on the status of Elizabeth Hearn Dam and be aware of the emergency contacts and evacuation protocols. While the risk assessment and management measures are not specified, the state regulatory agency ensures that the dam meets safety guidelines and is prepared for any unforeseen events. As a vital piece of infrastructure in water resource management, Elizabeth Hearn Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance and protecting the community from potential water-related hazards.

Dam Length

580

Dam Height

20.5

Surface Area

18.9

Hydraulic Height

20.5

Nid Storage

217.22

Structural Height

20.5

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

21
       
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.