Mountain Run Dam #8a, also known as Caynor Lake, is a local government-owned structure in Culpeper, Virginia, designed by the Virginia DCR's Division of Soil and Water Conservation.
Wind
Humidity
This earth dam, standing at 34 feet in height and spanning 545 feet in length, serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Mountain Run stream. With a storage capacity of 1870 acre-feet and a drainage area of 5.56 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood hazards in the region.
Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, Mountain Run Dam #8a has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with the last inspection conducted in April 2021. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk assessment measures are currently not available, highlighting areas for potential improvement in emergency preparedness and response. With the dam falling under state regulation and inspection, the Department of Conservation and Recreation oversees its operation and enforcement to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Mountain Run Dam #8a an intriguing case study in local flood risk reduction efforts. Its location along the Mountain Run stream, coupled with its significant hazard potential, underscores the importance of effective dam management and emergency preparedness in safeguarding communities from potential flooding events. As climate change continues to impact precipitation patterns and water resource dynamics, the role of structures like Mountain Run Dam #8a becomes increasingly vital in enhancing resilience to natural disasters and ensuring sustainable water management practices in the region.
Dam Length |
545 |
Dam Height |
34 |
River Or Stream |
Mountain Run |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
34 |
Drainage Area |
5.56 |
Nid Storage |
1870 |
Structural Height |
34 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
34 |