Laurel Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Laurel Creek Dam, also known as Lost Lake, is a privately owned structure located in Grayson, Virginia.


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Summary

The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation and serves a primary purpose of recreation. Standing at a height of 24 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 124 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 10.5 acres. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment was deemed unsatisfactory during its last inspection in March 2019.

Situated on Laurel Creek, this earth dam offers a tranquil recreational spot while also posing challenges in terms of maintenance and safety. With state-regulated permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, the dam's condition is closely monitored to ensure public safety. The dam's design and construction specifics, as well as any modifications over the years, remain undisclosed. As climate change impacts water resources, understanding and managing the risks associated with dams like Laurel Creek becomes crucial for sustainable water management in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Laurel Creek Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately owned structure in Virginia. Its location, design, and regulatory oversight offer valuable insights into the complexities of managing water infrastructure for recreational purposes. As the dam continues to be monitored for safety and maintenance issues, it serves as a reminder of the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

LAUREL CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10.5

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

124

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

24
       
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.