The Fields Dam @ Cold Harbor Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Fields Dam @ Cold Harbor, located in Hanover, Virginia, is a state-regulated dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built on the tributary of Elder Swamp, this earth dam stands at a height of 17 feet and spans a length of 500 feet, providing a storage capacity of 62 acre-feet. While the hazard potential of the dam remains undetermined, it is regularly inspected by the Department of Conservation and Recreation to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Although the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, its emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are not specified. With its proximity to the Norfolk District and oversight from the state regulatory agency, the Department of Conservation and Recreation, The Fields Dam @ Cold Harbor presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of recreational infrastructure and environmental stewardship. As the dam continues to be monitored and maintained, its impact on the surrounding ecosystem and water resources will be a topic of ongoing interest and study.

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

trib. Elder Swamp

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

62

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

17
       
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.