Lake Idylwild Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lake Idylwild Dam, also known as West Pond Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Hanover, Virginia, along the Matadequin Creek.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 25 feet and stretches 180 feet in length, serving primarily for recreational purposes with a storage capacity of 1,000 acre-feet. Despite being regulated and inspected by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam has been assessed as having a significant hazard potential and fair condition as of the last inspection in May 2019.

The dam, managed by private owners, poses a potential risk due to its condition and location, with a hazard rating of significant. While it meets regulatory requirements and undergoes regular inspections, there is room for improvement in terms of maintenance and risk management measures. With its proximity to populated areas and the Matadequin Creek, ensuring the safety and stability of Lake Idylwild Dam is crucial for the surrounding community and the environment.

As a vital part of the local water resource infrastructure, Lake Idylwild Dam plays a key role in providing recreational opportunities and maintaining water storage for the area. However, with the potential for significant hazards and fair condition rating, there is a need for continued monitoring, maintenance, and potential upgrades to ensure the safety and functionality of this essential structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

Dam Length

180

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

MATADEQUIN CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

61

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

10.5

Nid Storage

1000

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Significant

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.