Cortney Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Courtney Dam Cheatswood Mill Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Cortney Dam, located in Essex, Virginia, is a state-regulated structure with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 21 feet and has a storage capacity of 129 acre-feet. While the hazard potential of the dam is currently undetermined, it is subject to regular inspections by the Department of Conservation and Recreation to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
The dam, situated in the Baltimore District, serves as a recreational facility for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area. Although the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, its emergency action plan status and risk management measures are under review. With a latitude of 37.913 and a longitude of -76.9719, Cortney Dam offers a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and serves as a vital resource for the local community.
As a notable structure in Virginia, Cortney Dam contributes to the conservation and management of water resources in the region. Its role in providing recreational opportunities while also being subject to state inspection and enforcement highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring such infrastructure for the benefit of both residents and the environment. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cortney Dam stands as a symbol of the intersection between human recreation and responsible stewardship of natural resources.
Dam Height |
21 |
Hydraulic Height |
21 |
Nid Storage |
129 |
Structural Height |
21 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
21 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Cortney Dam