Saponi Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Saponi Dam, located in Albemarle, Virginia, stands as a crucial water resource for the area, regulating the flow of TR-Preddy Creek.


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Summary

This earth-type dam, with a height of 28 feet and a length of 250 feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a serene environment for activities such as fishing and boating. Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam's state-regulated status ensures proper inspection and enforcement measures are in place to maintain its structural integrity.

With a storage capacity of 87 acre-feet, Saponi Dam plays a role in water conservation, holding a normal storage level of 43 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 8 acres. Despite its undetermined hazard potential and lack of recent condition assessment, the dam has stood as a reliable structure since its completion. The last inspection in 2001 highlighted the dam's adherence to safety standards, with an emergency action plan in place to address any unforeseen events.

As an integral part of the local water infrastructure, Saponi Dam remains a vital asset for both water resource management and recreational enjoyment. Its presence along TR-Preddy Creek not only supports the surrounding ecosystem but also provides a picturesque backdrop for outdoor activities, reflecting the harmonious balance between human recreation and environmental stewardship.

Dam Length

250

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

TR-Preddy Creek

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

1.25

Nid Storage

87

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.