L. G. Atkins Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

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Summary

G. Atkins Dam is a recreational earth dam located in Cumberland, Virginia, with a height of 23 feet and a length of 440 feet. The dam provides a storage capacity of 195 acre-feet and is managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. Despite being classified as having an undetermined hazard potential and not rated in terms of condition assessment, the dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections, enforcement, and permitting processes.

Situated within the Norfolk District, L. G. Atkins Dam serves primarily for recreational purposes and is not federally owned or funded. The dam has not been modified since its completion and does not have an established emergency action plan or risk assessment in place. While the overall risk management measures are not specified, the dam meets state jurisdiction guidelines and is within the regulatory authority of the Department of Conservation and Recreation.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, L. G. Atkins Dam offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of recreational infrastructure and environmental stewardship in Virginia. With its location in a picturesque setting and close oversight by state regulators, the dam presents a case study in balancing the demands of human recreation with the need to ensure the safety and integrity of water resources. As discussions around climate change and water management continue to evolve, the management and maintenance of dams like L. G. Atkins will play a crucial role in shaping sustainable practices for the future.

Dam Length

440

Dam Height

23

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

195

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

23
       
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.