Courtney Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Cortney Dam Cheatswood Mill Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Courtney Dam in Essex, Virginia is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
This dam, standing at a height of 20.5 feet with a storage capacity of 121.44 acre-feet, serves a critical role in water resource management in the area. It is situated in the Baltimore District and falls under the jurisdiction of the state of Virginia, ensuring that it is regularly inspected and maintained to meet regulatory standards.
Although the specific purposes of Courtney Dam are not outlined in the data, its significance lies in its ability to control water flow and provide storage capacity for the surrounding area. With a normal storage capacity of 83.3 acre-feet and a surface area of 11.9 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. While the hazard potential is labeled as "Undetermined" and the condition is "Not Rated," the dam's strategic location and design make it an essential piece of infrastructure for climate and water enthusiasts to monitor and study.
Located in a picturesque setting in Essex, Virginia, Courtney Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human engineering and natural resources. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, exploring the details of this dam's design, function, and regulatory oversight provides valuable insight into the intricate balance between water management, environmental conservation, and infrastructure development. By understanding the nuances of Courtney Dam and its impact on the local ecosystem, enthusiasts can gain a deeper appreciation for the complex interplay between human activities and the natural world.
Dam Length |
340 |
Dam Height |
20.5 |
Surface Area |
11.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
20.5 |
Nid Storage |
121.44 |
Structural Height |
20.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
21 |
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.
Courtney Dam