Salmon Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Salmon Dam, also known as Aldwyck #4, is a private dam located in Goochland, Virginia, along the tributary of Courthouse Creek.


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Summary

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this earth dam stands at 18 feet in height and serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond. With a storage capacity of 74 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem and providing habitat for various species of fish and wildlife.

Despite its importance, the condition of Salmon Dam is currently labeled as "Not Rated," with an undetermined hazard potential. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures are all listed as unknown. While the dam has undergone state regulation, inspection, and enforcement, critical information such as the last inspection date and assessment of its structural integrity remain unspecified. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the mystery surrounding Salmon Dam presents an opportunity to advocate for transparency and proactive measures to ensure the safety and sustainability of this vital ecosystem feature.

Given the lack of detailed data on Salmon Dam's condition and risk assessment, there is a pressing need for further evaluation and monitoring to prevent potential hazards and ensure the long-term resilience of this structure. As a key component in the local fish and wildlife habitat, understanding and addressing the safety of Salmon Dam is essential for preserving the surrounding environment and maintaining the ecological balance of Courthouse Creek. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can contribute by advocating for increased transparency, regular inspections, and proactive risk management strategies to safeguard Salmon Dam and its vital role in supporting biodiversity and ecosystem health in the region.

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

trib. Courthouse Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

74

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

18
       
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.