Thetford Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Thetford Dam, located in Hanover, Virginia, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 21 feet and stretching 300 feet in length, Thetford Dam has a storage capacity of 181.02 acre-feet, with a normal storage of 99.96 acre-feet and a surface area of 14.7 acres. While the dam's hazard potential is currently classified as undetermined and its condition has not been rated, it is subject to regular inspections with a frequency of once per year.

Despite lacking a designated primary purpose or specific dam type, Thetford Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Its presence ensures the efficient regulation of water levels and serves as a key component in flood control efforts. As climate change continues to impact the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, structures like Thetford Dam become increasingly essential in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against potential risks and hazards.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is important to recognize the significance of infrastructure like Thetford Dam in mitigating the effects of a changing climate. By understanding the role of dams in water management and flood control, we can appreciate the efforts made to protect our environment and communities. Monitoring and supporting the upkeep of structures like Thetford Dam is crucial in ensuring their continued effectiveness in safeguarding against future challenges posed by a shifting climate landscape.

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

21

Surface Area

14.7

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

181.02

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

21
       
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.