Lake Ellen Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Lake Ellen Dam, also known as Both Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Louisa, Virginia.


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Summary

Completed in 1994, this earth dam stands at a height of 39.5 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes, offering a serene environment for water enthusiasts. With a storage capacity of 625 acre-feet and a surface area of 38 acres, Lake Ellen Dam provides a tranquil setting for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Lake Ellen Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by state authorities to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, regular inspections are conducted, with the last one taking place in October 2017. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in 2007, indicating a commitment to preparedness and risk management in case of any unforeseen events.

Situated along the TR-SOUTH ANNA river, Lake Ellen Dam offers a picturesque backdrop for nature lovers and climate enthusiasts alike. Its location within Norfolk District and under the representation of Abigail Davis Spanberger (D) provides a valuable resource for the local community while highlighting the importance of sustainable water management practices in the region. With its serene surroundings and recreational opportunities, Lake Ellen Dam serves as a vital asset for both leisure and environmental conservation efforts in the area.

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

510

Dam Height

39.5

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH ANNA

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

38

Hydraulic Height

39.5

Drainage Area

1.22

Nid Storage

625

Structural Height

39.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

40
       
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.