West Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

West Dam, also known as Skyland Lakes, is a private recreational facility located in Carroll, Virginia.


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Summary

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 24 feet and offers a storage capacity of 55 acre-feet. While its hazard potential is currently undetermined and its condition is not rated, the dam is regularly inspected and meets state regulatory requirements for permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

Situated within the Wilmington District of Virginia, West Dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a picturesque setting for outdoor activities such as boating and fishing. Despite its modest storage capacity and limited structural information, the dam remains a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore the natural beauty of the Carroll region. With its serene surroundings and potential for future enhancements, West Dam offers a promising opportunity for sustainable recreation and conservation efforts in the area.

Although West Dam's risk assessment and emergency preparedness details are currently unavailable, the private ownership and state jurisdiction ensure that the dam is subject to regular monitoring and oversight. As a key feature in the local landscape, West Dam presents an intriguing case study for water resource management and climate resilience, highlighting the importance of balancing recreational needs with safety and environmental considerations. For those interested in exploring the intersection of water resources and climate change adaptation, West Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolving dynamics of dam infrastructure in the context of shifting environmental conditions.

Dam Height

24

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

55

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

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.