Swan Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Swan Dam, located in Culpeper, Virginia, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for water supply purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 19.81 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 84.64 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 70.53 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Jonas Run river, the dam serves as a vital resource for the local community, offering both recreational opportunities and essential water supply services.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Swan Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. While its hazard potential is currently undetermined and its condition remains unrated, the dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and risk management measures are yet to be fully documented. With its picturesque location and significant water storage capacity, Swan Dam stands as a key infrastructure asset in the region, playing a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts.

Despite the lack of detailed information on its construction year and structural assessment, Swan Dam's strategic position within the Baltimore District underscores its importance in the local water supply network. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor developments related to the dam, its role in supporting the community's water needs and contributing to environmental sustainability remains a focal point for ongoing discussions and potential future enhancements.

Dam Length

490

Dam Height

19.81

River Or Stream

TR-Jonas Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.21

Hydraulic Height

19.81

Nid Storage

84.64

Structural Height

19.81

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

20
       
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.