Cooper Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Willow Ridge Dam Landover Road Dam
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Cooper Dam, located in Louisa, Virginia, is a private dam with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 19 feet, this earth dam has a storage capacity of 138 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Although the hazard potential of Cooper Dam is currently undetermined and its condition is not rated, it is important to note that the dam has not been assessed for emergency preparedness. Despite these uncertainties, the dam serves as a recreational resource for the community and is situated on tributaries of East Prong Beaverdam Creek. With its location in a picturesque setting, Cooper Dam offers opportunities for outdoor activities and relaxation for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area.
As a non-federal structure, Cooper Dam is not under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers. However, it still plays a significant role in providing recreational opportunities and contributing to the overall water infrastructure in the region. With its unique design and purpose, Cooper Dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and managing water resources for both safety and enjoyment.
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
trib. East Prong Beaverdam Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Nid Storage |
138 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
19 |
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 |
James River At Scottsville
|
3600cfs |
Moormans River Near Free Union
|
67cfs |
Rapidan River Near Ruckersville
|
117cfs |
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.
Cooper Dam