Orchid Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Orchid Lake Dam in Louisa, Virginia, is a private dam regulated by the state's Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

The dam, standing at a height of 18.22 feet and stretching 450 feet in length, serves a primary purpose of recreation along Owens Creek. With a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet, the dam's hazard potential is rated as low, and its condition assessment as satisfactory during the last inspection in March 2015.

Located within the Norfolk District, Orchid Lake Dam is a vital infrastructure for the surrounding community, offering recreational opportunities while also serving as a water resource management system. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam continues to be inspected and regulated by state authorities to ensure its safety and integrity over time. With its picturesque setting and essential role in water management, Orchid Lake Dam stands as a key landmark in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of Orchid Lake Dam in balancing recreation and water management needs. As a privately owned structure with state oversight, the dam represents a harmonious blend of human intervention and natural resource preservation. Its presence along Owens Creek not only enhances the local landscape but also underscores the importance of responsible dam operation in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against potential risks.

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

18.22

River Or Stream

Owens Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

18.22

Drainage Area

0.27

Nid Storage

170

Structural Height

18.22

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

18
       
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.