Richmond Zoo Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Richmond Zoo Dam, located in Chesterfield, Virginia, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 26.25 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 49.35 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 3.7 acres. While the hazard potential of the dam is currently labeled as "undetermined" and its condition has not been rated, it undergoes regular inspections with a frequency of one per year.

Despite lacking specific details on the dam's construction year and purposes, Richmond Zoo Dam serves as a crucial water resource within the area. With a normal storage capacity of 32.2 acre-feet, the dam plays a significant role in managing water flow and storage in the region. The dam's location within the Norfolk District underscores its importance in local water management efforts, highlighting its impact on the surrounding environment and climate.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts analyze the data surrounding Richmond Zoo Dam, questions arise regarding its risk management measures and emergency preparedness. With aspects such as emergency action plans, risk assessments, and inundation maps still pending updates, there is an opportunity for stakeholders to enhance the dam's safety protocols. By addressing these critical areas, Richmond Zoo Dam can continue to fulfill its vital role in water resource management while mitigating potential risks and ensuring the safety of the surrounding community.

Dam Height

26.25

Surface Area

3.7

Hydraulic Height

26.25

Nid Storage

49.35

Structural Height

26.25

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

26
       
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.