Sheppard Town Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Sheppard Town Dam, located in Goochland, Virginia, is a vital water resource structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes along Courthouse Creek. With a storage capacity of 189 acre-feet, it offers opportunities for outdoor activities while also contributing to the local ecosystem.

Despite its undetermined hazard potential and not being rated for condition assessment, Sheppard Town Dam plays a crucial role in water management for the surrounding area. Its inspection frequency of 1 suggests ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality. As climate change continues to impact water resources, this dam serves as a valuable asset for both recreation and environmental conservation in the region.

As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, keeping a close eye on structures like Sheppard Town Dam is essential in understanding their role in the broader context of climate resilience and water security. With the support of regulatory agencies and ongoing assessments, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

COURTHOUSE CREEK

Hydraulic Height

27

Nid Storage

189

Structural Height

27

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

27
       
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.