Elk Garden Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Anderson Dam Springhill Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Bedford, Virginia, Elk Garden Lake Dam is a privately owned structure primarily utilized for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The dam, constructed by Froehling and Robertson, Inc., stands at a height of 30 feet and spans a length of 300 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 83 acre-feet. The dam, which is regulated by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, holds a hazard potential rating of "High" but is currently labeled as "Not Rated" for its condition as of the last inspection in April 2010.
Situated on a tributary of Boyle Creek, Elk Garden Lake Dam not only provides recreational opportunities for visitors but also plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. With a normal storage capacity of 66 acre-feet and a surface area of 6.24 acres, the dam contributes to the conservation of water and supports the surrounding ecosystem. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has not been assessed for its condition since 2010, raising concerns about its structural integrity and the potential risks it poses in the event of a failure.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor the status of Elk Garden Lake Dam, there is a growing need for updated inspections and risk assessments to ensure the safety of the structure and the community downstream. With its location in a high-risk area and the potential for significant impact in the event of a breach, stakeholders must prioritize maintenance and regulatory oversight to mitigate potential hazards and protect the surrounding environment.
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB-BOYLE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6.24 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Drainage Area |
0.14 |
Nid Storage |
83 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
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Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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