Dover Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Dover Lake Dam, also known as Sabot Hill, is a private dam located in Goochland, Virginia, along the Dover Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

It is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation and serves primarily for irrigation purposes. Standing at 41 feet high with a length of 530 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 4198 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 150 acres. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is currently in satisfactory condition according to its last assessment in April 2021.

The dam's location in the Norfolk District and its association with the Democratic Representative Abigail Davis Spanberger make it a significant point of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With a drainage area of 7.72 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 12,765 cubic feet per second, Dover Lake Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Its inspection frequency of one year ensures that it continues to operate safely and effectively for both irrigation and recreational purposes.

As a private structure with state regulation and inspection, Dover Lake Dam represents the intersection of private ownership and public oversight in water resource management. Its satisfactory condition, high hazard potential, and storage capacity make it an essential component of the local water infrastructure. With its location in Goochland, Virginia, and its association with key agencies and officials, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of responsible dam operation and maintenance in the face of climate change and increasing water demands.

Dam Length

530

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

DOVER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

150

Hydraulic Height

41

Drainage Area

7.72

Nid Storage

4198

Structural Height

41

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

41
       
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.