West Ash Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

West Ash Pond Dam, located in Fluvanna, Virginia, is a vital structure owned by a Public Utility and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

Designed by Golder Associates and the Virginia Electric and Power Company, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 258 acre-feet. The dam has a low hazard potential and was last inspected in June 2020, with a satisfactory condition assessment.

Despite its primary purpose being classified as "Other," West Ash Pond Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With its state-regulated status and regular inspections, this dam ensures the safety and stability of the surrounding area. In the event of an emergency, the dam is equipped with measures to mitigate risks and protect the community, although details on emergency preparedness and risk assessment are currently unavailable.

Overall, West Ash Pond Dam serves as a significant infrastructure component in the water resource landscape of Virginia. Its design, construction, and regulatory oversight highlight the commitment to maintaining the integrity of the dam and safeguarding the environment. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role and characteristics of West Ash Pond Dam provides valuable insights into the intersection of infrastructure, regulation, and natural resource management.

Dam Height

25

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

258

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.