Barlows Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Barlows Pond Dam, also known as Laurel Lake, is a privately owned recreational dam located in York, Virginia.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Situated on Skimino Creek within the Norfolk District, this earth dam stands at 11.8 feet high and spans 860 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and a surface area of 52 acres, the dam serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.

While the dam is deemed to have a significant hazard potential, its condition assessment as of September 2020 was rated as fair. Regular inspections have been conducted, with the last one occurring in September 2020, and the dam is subject to state regulation by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. Despite the lack of information on the year of completion and specifics on spillway type or discharge capacity, Barlows Pond Dam remains a notable feature in the area, attracting visitors seeking outdoor recreation and a connection to the local water resources.

As a key structure in the region, Barlows Pond Dam contributes to the conservation and management of water resources in Virginia. Its presence not only adds to the recreational offerings in the area but also highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams to ensure their safety and continued functionality. For those interested in water resource management and climate-related issues, Barlows Pond Dam serves as a case study in balancing the benefits of water-based recreation with the necessity of proper dam maintenance and regulation to mitigate potential risks.

Dam Length

860

Dam Height

11.8

River Or Stream

SKIMINO CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

52

Hydraulic Height

11.8

Drainage Area

8.26

Nid Storage

300

Structural Height

11.8

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

12
       
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.