Black Creek Impoundment Reservoir Report
Nearby: Watts Dam Amelia Estates Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Black Creek Impoundment in Nelson, Virginia, is a local government-owned water resource infrastructure designed for water supply purposes.
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Summary
This earth dam structure stands at a height of 23.5 feet, with a storage capacity of 135 acre-feet and a surface area of 7 acres. Situated along the Black Creek river, this impoundment is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement standards.
With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Black Creek Impoundment plays a crucial role in providing water supply for the surrounding area. Despite not being federally owned or funded, this structure represents a vital water management asset in the region. The dam's last inspection was conducted in February 2010, with an inspection frequency of once per year, demonstrating a commitment to ensuring its safety and functionality.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Black Creek Impoundment offers a fascinating glimpse into the local government's efforts to manage water supply in Virginia. Its location along the Black Creek river, its design for water supply purposes, and its state-regulated status highlight the importance of sustainable water resource management. As a key infrastructure piece in the region, this impoundment showcases the intersection of environmental conservation, water supply needs, and state regulatory measures in ensuring the safety and reliability of water resources for the community.
Dam Length |
120 |
Dam Height |
23.5 |
River Or Stream |
Black Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
23.5 |
Drainage Area |
2.97 |
Nid Storage |
135 |
Structural Height |
23.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Black Creek Impoundment
Nf Boundary Along The South Fork Tye River Near Fdt 526 And State Highway 56 To Town Of Nash