Lake Ivanhoe Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Ivanhoe Dam, also known as Colonial Forest Dam, is a private dam located in Hanover, Virginia, along Pollard Creek.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 25.2 feet and has a storage capacity of 340 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 162 acre-feet. The dam primarily serves the purpose of recreation, providing a surface area of 16.18 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Lake Ivanhoe Dam has a low hazard potential and is currently in satisfactory condition, as assessed in September 2021. The dam has a history of regular inspections, with the last one conducted in September 2021, ensuring its safety and stability. While no major modifications have been reported in recent years, the dam continues to provide a recreational oasis for locals and visitors alike.

With its serene setting and recreational opportunities, Lake Ivanhoe Dam is a valuable water resource in Hanover County. Its strategic location and regulated maintenance make it a safe and enjoyable destination for water and climate enthusiasts to appreciate the beauty of nature while engaging in various outdoor activities.

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

25.2

River Or Stream

POLLARD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

16.18

Hydraulic Height

25.2

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

340

Structural Height

25.2

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

25
       
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.