Cox Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Cox Dam, located in Louisa, Virginia, is a state-regulated structure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at a height of 17 feet and stretching 400 feet in length, serves primarily for recreation purposes, providing a storage capacity of 91 acre-feet. Situated along a tributary of Deep Creek, Cox Dam offers a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy water-based activities.

Despite its undetermined hazard potential and unrated condition assessment, Cox Dam remains an integral part of the local landscape, offering a haven for nature lovers and water resource enthusiasts alike. While details on the dam's construction date and modification history are currently unavailable, its presence underscores the importance of sustainable water management practices in the face of changing climate conditions. With state permitting, inspection, and enforcement mechanisms in place, Cox Dam continues to play a vital role in supporting the community's recreational needs while ensuring public safety and environmental stewardship.

As climate change impacts become more pronounced, Cox Dam stands as a reminder of the critical role that water infrastructure plays in our society. With a close eye on risk management measures and emergency preparedness, the ongoing monitoring and maintenance of Cox Dam are essential to safeguarding its longevity and functionality for future generations. As stakeholders work together to address the challenges posed by a changing climate, Cox Dam remains a symbol of resilience and adaptability in the face of uncertain water resource dynamics.

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

trib. Deep Creek

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

91

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

17
       
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.