Beaver Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

Beaver Dam, located on Beaverdam Creek in Louisa, Virginia, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 23 feet and a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet, the dam provides opportunities for leisure activities in the area. Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

Although the hazard potential of Beaver Dam is classified as "Undetermined," its condition assessment as of June 2021 was deemed "Unsatisfactory." With an inspection frequency of once a year, efforts are being made to maintain and improve the dam's safety and functionality. Despite its current condition, Beaver Dam remains a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts and serves as a vital resource for water-based recreational activities in the region.

In the care of private ownership and state oversight, Beaver Dam represents the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. Its role in providing recreational opportunities while adhering to regulatory standards underscores the importance of sustainable dam infrastructure in mitigating potential risks and enhancing community safety in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

BEAVERDAM CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

76

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

23
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.