Shirley Mill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Shirley Mill Dam in Henrico, Virginia, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

Situated on Turkey Island Creek, this gravity dam stands at 23 feet in height and spans 400 feet in length. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam provides a maximum storage capacity of 639 acre-feet, making it a valuable resource for water enthusiasts in the area.

Although the hazard potential and condition assessment of Shirley Mill Dam are currently undetermined and not rated, the dam remains under state jurisdiction with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place. Despite lacking certain details such as the year of completion and specific construction features, the dam continues to serve its recreational purpose effectively. With a commitment to safety and compliance, Shirley Mill Dam ensures the protection of surrounding communities and the preservation of Turkey Island Creek's ecosystem.

As a significant landmark in the Norfolk District, Shirley Mill Dam offers a tranquil setting for outdoor activities and water recreation. While the dam's risk assessment and emergency preparedness details are yet to be fully established, its presence in the region contributes to the environmental and social well-being of Henrico, Virginia. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Shirley Mill Dam represents a blend of natural beauty and human ingenuity, inviting visitors to appreciate the balance between manmade structures and the surrounding ecosystem.

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

TURKEY ISLAND CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

639

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

23
       
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.