Lake Serene Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Silver Lake Dam Old Silver Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lake Serene Dam, also known as Butler Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Frederick, Virginia.
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Summary
This earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. The dam stands at a height of 24 feet and has a length of 350 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 400 acre-feet. Babbs Run flows through this picturesque area, adding to the beauty of the surrounding landscape.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Lake Serene Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the state of Virginia. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in satisfactory condition, as assessed in August 2019. Emergency action plans are in place, with the last revision in September 2020, ensuring the safety and preparedness of the surrounding community in case of unforeseen events. With its tranquil waters and lush surroundings, Lake Serene Dam is a haven for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking a peaceful retreat in nature.
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
Babbs Run |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
5.05 |
Nid Storage |
400 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
24 |
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.
Lake Serene Dam