Cheatswood Mill Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cortney Dam Courtney Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Cheatswood Mill Dam, located in Essex, Virginia, along the banks of Hoskins Creek, is a privately owned earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 16 feet with a length of 283 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 272 acre-feet. While the dam's hazard potential is currently undetermined and its condition has not been rated, it is maintained by the USDA NRCS and falls under the jurisdiction of the state of Virginia.
Despite not being regulated by the state, Cheatswood Mill Dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. The dam's tranquil surroundings and close proximity to nature make it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life. While the dam's inspection frequency is currently at 0, efforts to assess its condition and potential risks may be needed in the future to ensure the safety of visitors and the surrounding environment.
As a significant feature in the Baltimore District, Cheatswood Mill Dam stands as a testament to the balance between human enjoyment and environmental conservation. With its picturesque location and ample storage capacity, the dam continues to be a valuable resource for the community. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor and evaluate the dam's condition to guarantee its longevity and safety for future generations to enjoy.
Dam Length |
283 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
Hoskins Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Nid Storage |
272 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Cheatswood Mill Dam