Elm Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dovershire Dam Goose Pointe Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Elm Creek Dam, located in Goochland, Virginia, is a state-regulated structure that serves primarily for recreation purposes.
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Summary
This earthen dam, standing at 17 feet high and stretching 300 feet in length, is associated with the tributary of the James River and falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Conservation and Recreation. Despite being marked as having an undetermined hazard potential and not yet rated for its condition, the dam is regularly inspected by the state with permits and enforcement in place.
With a storage capacity of 91 acre-feet, Elm Creek Dam provides a vital resource for water supply and recreational activities in the area. Though its exact completion year and maintenance history remain unclear, the dam's presence contributes to the overall water management efforts within the Norfolk District. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of structures like Elm Creek Dam in ensuring sustainable water use and environmental protection cannot be understated.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Elm Creek Dam presents an intriguing case study of a regulated earth dam that plays a significant role in local water management. As efforts to assess its condition and potential risks continue, the dam stands as a reminder of the complexities and challenges involved in balancing the needs of recreation, water supply, and environmental conservation. With ongoing inspections and regulatory oversight, Elm Creek Dam exemplifies the importance of proactive monitoring and management of water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
17 |
River Or Stream |
trib. James River |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Nid Storage |
91 |
Structural Height |
17 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
17 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Fine Creek At Fine Creek Mills
|
3cfs |
James River And Kanawha Canal Near Richmond
|
131cfs |
James River Near Richmond
|
1960cfs |
Appomattox River At Mattoax
|
292cfs |
South Anna River Near Ashland
|
110cfs |
James River At Cartersville
|
1950cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Elm Creek Dam
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