Ruella Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

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


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Summary

Standing at a height of 23.2 feet and with a length of 500 feet, the dam provides a maximum storage capacity of 57.72 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 40.6 acre-feet. The dam's surface area covers 4.9 acres and it is classified as having an undetermined hazard potential, with its condition currently not rated.

While specific details regarding the dam's construction date and purposes remain unknown, its importance in water resource management and climate resilience in the region cannot be understated. With the ability to store significant amounts of water and regulate its release, Ruella Dam plays a crucial role in flood control, irrigation, and maintaining a stable water supply for the surrounding area. Its presence highlights the intricate interplay between human infrastructure and natural resources in managing and adapting to changing environmental conditions.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate science will find Ruella Dam to be a fascinating case study of the intersection between human-built structures and environmental stewardship. The dam's location within the Pittsburgh District and its state-regulated status underscore the complexities of managing water resources in a changing climate. As efforts to assess and address the dam's condition and emergency preparedness continue, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges and opportunities in sustainable water management practices for the future.

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

23.2

Surface Area

4.9

Hydraulic Height

23.2

Nid Storage

57.72

Structural Height

23.2

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

23
       
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.