Little River Dam #4 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bethany Dam Chisholm Dam
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Little River Dam #4, also known as Kemps Lake, is a local government-owned earth dam located in Louisa, Virginia.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Completed in 1966, this dam stands at a height of 32 feet and spans a length of 780 feet, providing flood risk reduction for the surrounding area along Hawkins Creek. With a storage capacity of 1,699 acre-feet, the dam serves as an essential structure for water resource management in the region.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Little River Dam #4 is regulated by the state of Virginia, with regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite being classified as having a significant hazard potential, the dam is assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in April 2020. The dam's emergency action plan is up to date, and it meets regulatory guidelines, providing a comprehensive approach to managing any potential risks associated with the structure.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Little River Dam #4 offers a fascinating case study in dam infrastructure and flood risk reduction. Positioned within the Baltimore District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, this earth dam plays a crucial role in protecting the community against potential flooding events, highlighting the importance of proactive management and maintenance of water infrastructure in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
780 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
HAWKINS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Drainage Area |
3.91 |
Nid Storage |
1699 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Little River Dam #4