Swine Meyer Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Located in Bedford, Virginia, Swine Meyer Dam serves as a vital water resource and recreational area in the region.


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Summary

Managed by the Campbell County Utilities and Service Authority, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 21.9 feet and has a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Swine Meyer Dam is for recreation, with additional functions including fire protection and stock or small fish pond.

Situated on Terrapin Creek, Swine Meyer Dam provides a serene environment for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. With a surface area of 7.7 acres and a drainage area of 0.7 square miles, the dam offers a tranquil escape for visitors seeking to connect with nature. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia to ensure its safety and compliance with state guidelines.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Swine Meyer Dam presents a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of human infrastructure and natural landscapes. As a privately owned structure, the dam serves as a testament to the importance of responsible water management and environmental stewardship. Whether for recreational enjoyment or as a case study in dam engineering, Swine Meyer Dam stands as a symbol of the delicate balance between human needs and ecological preservation.

Dam Length

373

Dam Height

21.9

River Or Stream

TR-TERRAPIN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.7

Hydraulic Height

21.9

Drainage Area

0.7

Nid Storage

90

Structural Height

21.9

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

22
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.