Bosher Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Bosher Dam, located on the James River in Henrico, Virginia, serves as a crucial water supply infrastructure managed by the local government.


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Summary

This gravity dam stands at a height of 10 feet with a storage capacity of 2100 acre-feet, providing essential water resources for the region. While the dam is state regulated and inspected, its hazard potential and condition assessment remain undetermined, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its operational integrity.

The primary purpose of Bosher Dam is water supply, reflecting its vital role in ensuring a reliable water source for the community. Despite its modest height, the dam plays a significant role in managing the flow of the James River and storing water for various uses. As a state-regulated structure, Bosher Dam falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Conservation and Recreation, highlighting the importance of compliance with safety and regulatory standards to safeguard both the dam and the surrounding environment.

With its location on the James River and its key role in water supply infrastructure, Bosher Dam stands as a testament to the efforts to manage and preserve water resources in Virginia. As climate change impacts water availability and quality, the maintenance and operation of dams like Bosher Dam become even more critical in ensuring a sustainable and resilient water supply for the region. Through continued monitoring, inspection, and risk assessment, Bosher Dam can continue to fulfill its essential function in supporting the community's water needs while adapting to evolving environmental challenges.

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

JAMES RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Hydraulic Height

10

Nid Storage

2100

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

10
       
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.