Daniel Mcdowell Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Daniel Mcdowell Dam in Virginia is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

With a height of 19 feet and a length of 550 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 104.2 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 65.54 acre-feet. Situated in Frederick County, the dam has a surface area of 11.3 acres and is located within the Pittsburgh District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

Despite being classified as "Undetermined" in terms of hazard potential and "Not Rated" in condition assessment, the dam has undergone state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes. However, details on its construction year, spillway type, and emergency action plan readiness are currently unavailable. The dam's location along with its storage capacity and regulatory oversight make it an important asset for water resource management in the region.

Enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate change will find Daniel Mcdowell Dam a significant structure to monitor and study. With its strategic location and state-regulated status, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water supply management in Virginia. Further research and evaluation of its risk assessment, emergency preparedness, and overall condition could provide valuable insights for sustainable water resource management practices in the area.

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

19

Surface Area

11.3

Hydraulic Height

19

Nid Storage

104.2

Structural Height

19

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

19
       
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.