Spruance Polishing Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Spruance Polishing Dam, also known as the Industrial Wastewater Pond, is a private water resource facility located in Chesterfield, Virginia.


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Summary

Managed by Resource International, Ltd., this dam plays a crucial role in water treatment and environmental conservation efforts in the area. With a height of 28 feet and a storage capacity of 171.5 acre-feet, the dam serves as a containment and treatment structure for industrial wastewater before it is released into the TR-James River.

The dam is designed as an earth-type structure, with a length of 2060 feet and a surface area of 35.2 acres. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure its structural integrity and overall condition. The Department of Conservation and Recreation oversees the regulatory aspects of the dam, including permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Located within close proximity to the James River, the dam plays a critical role in water quality management and environmental protection efforts in the region.

Overall, Spruance Polishing Dam is a vital component of the water infrastructure in Chesterfield County, Virginia. With its primary purpose being water treatment, the dam contributes to maintaining the health and sustainability of the local water resources. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, facilities like Spruance Polishing Dam play a crucial role in ensuring the responsible management and treatment of industrial wastewater, ultimately safeguarding the health of the environment and communities downstream.

Dam Length

2060

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR-JAMES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

35.2

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

0.25

Nid Storage

171.5

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
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.