Lewis Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lewis Dam, located in Essex, Virginia, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 26 feet, the dam provides a maximum storage capacity of 45.55 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 24.3 acre-feet. With a surface area of 3.04 acres, Lewis Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area.

Despite being categorized as having an undetermined hazard potential and not yet rated for its condition assessment, Lewis Dam undergoes regular inspections with a frequency of once per year. Emergency action plans are in place, although details regarding their preparation and compliance with guidelines are not specified in the data. The dam is situated within the Baltimore District and falls under the regulatory jurisdiction of the state of Virginia, highlighting the importance of its role in the region's water infrastructure.

As a key component of the water management system in Essex, Virginia, Lewis Dam provides vital storage capacity and serves as a crucial resource for water supply and conservation efforts in the area. With its state-regulated status and regular inspections, the dam plays a significant role in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region. Enthusiasts of water resource management and climate resilience can appreciate the essential function that Lewis Dam serves in maintaining the local water ecosystem.

Dam Height

26

Surface Area

3.04

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

45.55

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

26
       
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.