Ellerson Mill Trace Reservoir Report
Nearby: Dabney Lake Dam Drinkard Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Ellerson Mill Trace is a state-regulated water resource located in Hanover, Virginia, along the tributary of Beaverdam Creek.
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Summary
This dam stands at a height of 24 feet and stretches 600 feet in length, providing a NID storage capacity of 88 acre-feet. While the dam's hazard potential is currently undetermined and its condition is not rated, it is subject to regular inspections by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, ensuring its structural integrity and safety for surrounding communities.
Despite lacking specific details on its completion year and purposes, Ellerson Mill Trace remains a significant feature in the water management infrastructure of Virginia. The dam's location within the Norfolk District and its ownership status as "Not Listed" suggest a complex network of regulatory oversight and maintenance responsibilities. With its emergency action plan status and risk assessment data yet to be fully assessed, the dam presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure management and environmental stewardship.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts delve into the data surrounding Ellerson Mill Trace, they are met with a mix of detailed information and unanswered questions. The presence of associated structures, lack of spillway specifics, and the absence of a designated primary purpose add layers of complexity to this intriguing water resource. While the dam's risk management measures and risk characterization remain unknown, its state-regulated status, inspection frequency, and undetermined hazard potential underscore the importance of ongoing monitoring and assessment in safeguarding this vital piece of Virginia's water infrastructure.
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
trib. Beaverdam Creek |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Nid Storage |
88 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
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