Mt. Bernard Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

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Summary

Bernard Dam in Goochland, Virginia, is a state-regulated structure located along Courthouse Creek. With a primary purpose of recreation, this concrete dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a storage capacity of 240 acre-feet. While specific details about the dam's length and volume are not provided, its normal storage capacity is noted at 160 acre-feet, making it a significant water resource in the area.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Mt. Bernard Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment, and its hazard potential is currently classified as undetermined. Despite this, the dam undergoes regular inspections, with a frequency of one inspection per year. The dam does not fall under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers, and there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place as of the latest data update in April 2021.

Overall, Mt. Bernard Dam serves as a vital recreational asset in Virginia, providing opportunities for outdoor activities in the surrounding area. While its condition assessment and hazard potential remain uncertain, ongoing state regulation, inspections, and the absence of federal oversight suggest a commitment to maintaining the dam's safety and functionality for the benefit of water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

COURTHOUSE CREEK

Hydraulic Height

16

Nid Storage

240

Structural Height

16

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

16
       
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.