Abert Water Plant - Sludge Lagoon Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Abert Water Plant - Sludge Lagoon Dam in Bedford, Virginia, serves as a crucial structure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation to regulate water resources in the area.


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Summary

As a state-regulated dam, it plays a vital role in ensuring water quality and availability, especially in times of need. With a height of 55 feet and a hydraulic height matching that figure, the dam stands as a significant barrier on the TRIB - JAMES RIVER tributary.

This Earth type dam spans 240 feet in length and holds a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 46 acre-feet. The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, although its condition assessment remains satisfactory as of the latest inspection in October 2020. As a key component in the water infrastructure of the region, the Abert Water Plant - Sludge Lagoon Dam underscores the importance of effective management and monitoring to ensure its continued functionality and safety for the surrounding community and environment.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of structures like the Abert Water Plant - Sludge Lagoon Dam provides insight into the critical role they play in safeguarding water sources. With state oversight and enforcement in place, the dam serves as a key asset in water management and conservation efforts. As part of a broader strategy to protect and sustainably utilize water resources, its maintenance and operation are paramount to ensure the resilience of the local ecosystem and water supply for future generations.

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

55

River Or Stream

TRIB - JAMES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

55

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

55

Structural Height

55

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

55
       
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.