Lake Nice Dam in James City, Virginia, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.
Wind
Humidity
Located on a tributary to France Swamp Creek, this dam stands at a height of 35 feet and has a length of 500 feet, creating a storage capacity of 446 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 301 acre-feet and a surface area of 14.8 acres, Lake Nice Dam provides a picturesque setting for outdoor activities and water sports.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this dam is state-regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the condition assessment of Lake Nice Dam is deemed satisfactory as of the last inspection in August 2017. The dam has an emergency action plan in place, although it was last revised in 2004, indicating a need for updated emergency preparedness measures.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lake Nice Dam offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human infrastructure and natural environments. With its recreational focus and connection to a local waterway, this dam serves as both a leisure destination and a critical component of water management in the region. As efforts continue to monitor and maintain the dam's safety, it remains an important feature in the landscape of James City, Virginia.
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
trib. to France Swamp creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
14.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Drainage Area |
0.23 |
Nid Storage |
446 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
35 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Ed Allen's
|
||
Hammock Camp
|
||
Chickahominy Riverfront Park
|