Wise Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Wise Dam, located in Goochland, Virginia, stands as a vital structure regulating the flow of Redeye Creek.


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Summary

With a dam height of 28 feet and a length of 390 feet, it serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene environment for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. Managed and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Wise Dam ensures the safety and sustainability of the surrounding ecosystem.

Although the dam's hazard potential is labeled as undetermined and its condition assessment remains unrated, its importance in maintaining water resources and providing recreational opportunities cannot be understated. With a storage capacity of 139 acre-feet, Wise Dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and ensuring a reliable water supply for the local community. Despite its age and the absence of recent modifications, Wise Dam continues to serve as a symbol of resilience and resourcefulness in the face of changing climates and environmental challenges.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, we recognize the significance of structures like Wise Dam in safeguarding our natural environment and promoting sustainable practices. By understanding the role of dams in water management and recreation, we can work towards preserving and enhancing these vital resources for future generations. Wise Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship, inspiring us to continue our efforts in protecting and preserving our planet's precious water resources.

Dam Length

390

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

Redeye Creek

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

139

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

28
       
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.