Covenant Woods Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Covenant Woods Dam, also known as Brooks Hollow, is a state-regulated structure located in Hanover, Virginia.


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Summary

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this dam stands at a height of 18 feet with a length of 400 feet, providing a storage capacity of 61 acre-feet. Despite its impressive size, the dam's hazard potential is currently classified as undetermined, and its condition assessment remains unrated.

The dam's primary purpose and associated structures are not listed, highlighting a potential mystery surrounding its exact function. With an inspection frequency of once a year, Covenant Woods Dam has yet to undergo a comprehensive risk assessment or have emergency action plans prepared. While the dam's risk management measures and inundation maps remain unaddressed, its location in Congressional District 01, Virginia, adds a layer of complexity to its regulatory oversight and management.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Covenant Woods Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and oversight. With its state-regulated status, unique design features, and limited data available on its primary purpose, this dam raises questions about its role in water resource management and potential environmental impact. As discussions around dam safety and emergency preparedness continue to evolve, Covenant Woods Dam serves as a reminder of the complexities and challenges involved in ensuring the resilience and sustainability of our water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

18

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

61

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

18
       
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.