Little Falling River Dam # 3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Little Falling River Dam # 3, also known as Joy Lake, is a local government-owned structure located in Lynchburg, Virginia, along the Jacobs Creek and Little Falling River.
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Summary
This earth dam, with a height of 31 feet and a length of 350 feet, serves primarily for flood risk reduction purposes. The dam has a storage capacity of 587 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 59 acre-feet and a surface area of 13.5 acres.
The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with a width of 50 feet, and it has been assessed to have a significant hazard potential with fair condition. The last inspection date was in March 2020, with an inspection frequency of once per year. Despite the moderate risk assessment rating, the dam is deemed to meet regulatory guidelines for emergency action plans and inundation maps. Little Falling River Dam # 3 plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region, under the oversight of the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management of dams and their impact on local ecosystems will find Little Falling River Dam # 3 a compelling subject for study. With its strategic location and vital role in flood risk reduction, this dam presents a valuable case study for understanding the complexities of water infrastructure and the need for effective risk management measures. As a key structure in the region, ongoing inspections and maintenance efforts ensure the continued safety and functionality of Little Falling River Dam # 3, contributing to the overall resilience of the surrounding communities in the face of changing climate conditions.
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
Jacobs Creek - VAHU6 RU70 Little Falling River - Entry Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13.5 |
Drainage Area |
3.5 |
Nid Storage |
587 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
Little Falling River Dam # 3