Silica Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Silica Dam, also known as the U.S.
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Summary
Silica Open Pit, is a vital structure located in Hanover, Virginia, along the tributary of the South Anna River. Standing at a height of 28 feet with a length of 2000 feet, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of debris control. Owned by unspecified entities and not regulated by the state, Silica Dam's hazard potential is currently undetermined, with a condition assessment that has not been rated.
Despite its lack of state oversight, Silica Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. With a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet and a hydraulic height matching its structural height of 28 feet, this dam helps control the flow of water and debris along the South Anna River tributary. While its specific construction date and details remain unknown, Silica Dam continues to stand as a significant landmark in the region, ensuring the safety and efficiency of water management practices.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts delve into understanding the intricate network of dams in Virginia, Silica Dam stands out for its unique purpose and design. With no state jurisdiction or regulatory agency overseeing its operations, this structure represents a lesser-known aspect of water management infrastructure. Despite its undetermined hazard potential and unrated condition assessment, Silica Dam remains a key player in maintaining the ecological balance and water flow in the Hanover region, making it a site of interest for those passionate about sustainable water resource management and climate resilience.
Dam Length |
2000 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
trib. South Anna River |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Nid Storage |
200 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
Silica Dam