Mountain Valley Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Mountain Valley Lake Dam, also known as Foley Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Henry, Virginia.


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Summary

This recreational dam stands at a height of 41.81 feet and spans a length of 540 feet, creating a surface area of 17 acres. Situated on Leatherwood Creek, the dam provides not only a scenic backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts but also serves as a vital resource for water storage, with a maximum capacity of 351 acre-feet.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Mountain Valley Lake Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and compliance with state guidelines. Although its hazard potential is labeled as undetermined and its condition has not been rated, the dam's emergency action plan readiness, risk assessment, and management measures remain unassigned. Despite these uncertainties, the dam continues to be a popular spot for recreational activities, offering a serene environment for visitors to enjoy.

With its picturesque location and recreational purposes, Mountain Valley Lake Dam stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of water resource management and climate sustainability. As water and climate enthusiasts explore the depths of Leatherwood Creek and witness the beauty of this earth dam, they are reminded of the importance of preserving such natural wonders for future generations to enjoy.

Dam Length

540

Dam Height

41.81

River Or Stream

Leatherwood Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17

Hydraulic Height

41.81

Drainage Area

0.69

Nid Storage

351

Structural Height

41.81

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

42
       
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.