Swifts Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Bearden Dam Chisholm Dam
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Swifts Dam, located in Louisa, Virginia, is a state-regulated structure on the Little River that serves the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
With a height of 15 feet and a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet, this dam plays a vital role in providing water supply for the surrounding area while also offering recreational opportunities for visitors. The Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia oversees the regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement of this dam to ensure its safe operation.
Although the hazard potential and condition assessment of Swifts Dam are currently undetermined and not rated, the structure remains an important feature in the local water resource management system. With its picturesque location and potential for providing water supply, this dam stands as a key element in the overall water infrastructure of the region. Additionally, being part of the Baltimore District, it falls under the jurisdiction of Abigail Davis Spanberger, a representative who plays a crucial role in supporting water resource and climate initiatives in the area.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the significance of Swifts Dam, they can appreciate its role in both water supply and recreational activities. With its state-regulated status and oversight by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this dam embodies the balance between human needs and environmental protection. As efforts continue to assess and manage the risk associated with this structure, its importance in sustaining water resources and enhancing recreational experiences remains paramount in the local community and beyond.
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE RIVER |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
120 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Swifts Dam