Willow Ridge Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Landover Road Dam Cooper Dam
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Willow Ridge Dam, also known as Mountain Brook East Lake, is a private-owned structure located in Louisa, Virginia.
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Summary
Completed in 1994, this earth dam stands at a height of 14.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 76.8 acre-feet. Primarily serving the purpose of recreation, the dam is situated on the Little River tributary East Prong Beaverdam Creek, offering a serene and picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Willow Ridge Dam has a significant hazard potential and is classified as being in fair condition as of the last assessment in 2009. With a maximum discharge capacity of 4304 cubic feet per second and a controlled spillway width of 25 feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and ensuring the safety of its surroundings. Despite its risk level being rated as very high, the dam continues to be monitored and inspected regularly to uphold its structural integrity and safeguard the community.
As a key part of the water infrastructure in the region, Willow Ridge Dam not only provides recreational opportunities but also serves as a vital piece in the broader water resource management system. With its strategic location and important role in flood control and water storage, the dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship in the face of climate challenges.
Year Completed |
1994 |
Dam Length |
225 |
Dam Height |
14.5 |
River Or Stream |
Little River trib. East Prong Beaverdam Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Drainage Area |
0.8 |
Nid Storage |
76.8 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rivanna River At Palmyra
|
520cfs |
N F Rivanna River Near Earlysville
|
123cfs |
Hardware River Bl Briery Run Nr Scottsville
|
124cfs |
Moormans River Near Free Union
|
67cfs |
Rapidan River Near Ruckersville
|
117cfs |
James River At Scottsville
|
3600cfs |
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.
Willow Ridge Dam