Engineer Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Engineer Lake, located in Port Royal, Virginia, is a recreational water resource managed by the US Army.


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Summary

This man-made lake, with a dam height of 24 feet and a storage capacity of 30 acre-feet, serves as a fish and wildlife pond as well as a popular spot for outdoor activities. The dam, constructed using earth and stone materials, spans 200 feet in length and is primarily used for flood control and recreation purposes.

Despite its low hazard potential, Engineer Lake has a high risk assessment rating, indicating potential challenges in risk management and emergency preparedness. The dam is inspected every four years, with the last recorded inspection taking place in July 2018. While the condition assessment is not available, the lake's emergency action plan was last revised in August 2014. With a spillway width of 0 and uncontrolled outlet gates, the lake's water levels are carefully managed to maintain its surface area of 3 acres and serve its recreational and environmental functions effectively.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts visiting Engineer Lake can appreciate its role in providing a habitat for wildlife and offering opportunities for outdoor recreation. The lake's location along Goldenvale Creek Tributary and its proximity to Congressional District 01 in Virginia make it a valuable asset for the local community. With the US Army overseeing its operations, design, and construction, Engineer Lake stands as a testament to effective water resource management and conservation efforts in the region.

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

Goldenvale Creek Tr

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Nid Storage

30

Structural Height

24

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

24
       
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.