Chilarna Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Chilarna Lake Dam, located in Bedford, Virginia, is a private-owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at a height of 45 feet and stretching 200 feet in length, serves primarily for recreational purposes with a storage capacity of 90 acre-feet. The dam is situated along a tributary of the James River and has a surface area of 5 acres, providing a picturesque setting for outdoor activities.

Although the hazard potential of Chilarna Lake Dam is currently classified as "Undetermined," its condition assessment as of July 2012 was deemed to be fair. The dam has undergone inspections with a frequency of 1, and emergency action plans have been prepared, although updates on emergency contacts and inundation maps are pending. As a crucial structure for water resource management in the region, ongoing risk assessments and management measures are integral to ensuring the safety and longevity of Chilarna Lake Dam.

With its strategic location and contribution to the recreational landscape, Chilarna Lake Dam stands as a vital component of the water infrastructure in Virginia. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and monitoring of this dam play a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding communities and ecosystems. Enthusiasts interested in water resource management and climate resilience will find Chilarna Lake Dam to be an intriguing case study in balancing recreational benefits with the imperative of sustainable water management practices.

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

45

River Or Stream

TRIB - JAMES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

45

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

90

Structural Height

45

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

45
       
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.