Cosby Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Jessup Road Dam Club Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Cosby Dam, located in Chesterfield, Virginia, is a privately owned gravity dam built in 1956 primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
With a height of 17 feet and a storage capacity of 85 acre-feet, the dam impounds Kingsland Creek, providing a serene recreational area for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. Despite its small size, the dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Cosby Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Although the dam's condition is currently listed as "Not Rated," efforts have been made to establish an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in accordance with guidelines to mitigate risks associated with potential dam failures. The presence of an elected representative, Abigail Davis Spanberger, from the Norfolk District further highlights the significance of this water infrastructure in the local community and beyond.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cosby Dam serves as both a recreational attraction and a reminder of the importance of proper dam management and safety protocols. Its location within the picturesque landscape of Chesterfield, Virginia, coupled with its history dating back to the mid-20th century, adds to the allure for those interested in exploring the intersection of water management, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship. As discussions around climate change and water scarcity continue to evolve, Cosby Dam stands as a tangible example of the need for sustainable water resource practices and resilience in the face of potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
KINGSLAND CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
85 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
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