Horse Shoe Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Horse Shoe Lake Dam, located in Halifax, Virginia, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 35.8 feet, this earth dam overlooks the TR-DOUBLE CREEK river and has a storage capacity of 216 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, ensuring that it is regularly inspected and maintained to meet safety standards.

The dam, with a length of 800 feet and a surface area of 15 acres, was last inspected in May 1994 and has not been rated for its current condition. It is interesting to note that the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in May 1993, indicating a need for updated safety protocols. With its location in the Wilmington District and under the jurisdiction of the state of Virginia, Horse Shoe Lake Dam presents a unique blend of recreational and regulatory elements that make it a significant site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to study and appreciate.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the management and maintenance of dams like Horse Shoe Lake Dam become increasingly crucial. By staying informed about the regulatory oversight, inspection frequencies, and emergency preparedness measures for structures like this, enthusiasts can contribute to the overall resilience and sustainability of water resources in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

35.8

River Or Stream

TR-DOUBLE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

35.8

Drainage Area

0.38

Nid Storage

216

Structural Height

35.8

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

36
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.