Forest Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Forest Lake Dam, also known as Jones Lake, is a local government-owned structure in Hanover, Virginia, designed for recreation purposes and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 26 feet with a length of 265 feet, this earth dam on Kersey Creek offers a serene environment for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activities like fishing, boating, and hiking. With a normal storage capacity of 66.9 acre-feet and a surface area of 11.3 acres, the dam provides a picturesque setting for visitors to relax and appreciate the beauty of nature.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Forest Lake Dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. The most recent inspection in December 2020 confirmed its structural integrity and readiness to handle emergencies. Although no major modifications have been made since its construction, the dam continues to serve as a vital component of the surrounding ecosystem, supporting wildlife and enriching the local community with its recreational opportunities. As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Forest Lake Dam stands as a testament to responsible dam management and the importance of preserving natural resources for future generations.

Dam Length

265

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

KERSEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.3

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

0.28

Nid Storage

185

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.