Lake Salisbury Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Salisbury Dam, located in Chesterfield, Virginia, serves as a vital recreational resource for the community.


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Summary

With a dam height of 38 feet and a storage capacity of 990 acre-feet, the dam offers a surface area of 38.5 acres for various water-based activities. Managed by a private owner, the dam is regulated by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation to ensure its safety and compliance with state guidelines.

The dam, built on Falling Creek, has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed as satisfactory in condition. Regular inspections are conducted, with the most recent one occurring in December 2020. Despite its age and potential risks, the dam continues to provide valuable recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike. Additionally, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and supporting the surrounding ecosystem.

As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and management of dams like Lake Salisbury Dam become increasingly important. With proper oversight and adherence to safety protocols, this dam can continue to be a cherished recreational asset while also contributing to water management efforts in the region. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate resilience will find the story of Lake Salisbury Dam to be both intriguing and relevant in the context of our changing climate.

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

FALLING CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

38.5

Hydraulic Height

38

Drainage Area

1.4

Nid Storage

990

Structural Height

38

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

38
       
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.