Louisa Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

Louisa Dam, also known as Blue Ridge Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Louisa, Virginia, along Hickory Creek.


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Summary

Built in 1960, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans 600 feet in length, serving primarily for recreational purposes. With a storage capacity of 4,713 acre-feet and a surface area of 280 acres, the dam plays a significant role in the local water resource management.

Maintained and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Louisa Dam has been assessed to be in fair condition as of August 2021, with a hazard potential labeled as significant. Despite its age, the dam has undergone regular inspections, with the last one conducted in August 2021. Its location in the scenic surroundings of Louisa, Virginia, attracts water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the dam's role in water storage and management in the region.

With its picturesque setting and vital role in providing recreational opportunities for the community, Louisa Dam stands as a testament to the importance of proper water resource management and infrastructure maintenance. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, structures like Louisa Dam play a crucial role in safeguarding and utilizing water resources effectively for present and future generations of enthusiasts and residents alike.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

HICKORY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

280

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

15.7

Nid Storage

4713

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

25
       
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.