Nelson County Dam #7 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ramsay Knox Dam Walker Mill Dam
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Nelson County Dam #7, located in Nelson, Virginia, is a state-regulated dam under the jurisdiction of the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
With a height of 29 feet and a length of 270 feet, this dam provides a storage capacity of 64.03 acre-feet for water resource management in the area. The dam's primary purpose and specific design details are not listed, but its structural integrity and hazard potential are currently classified as undetermined.
Although the condition assessment of Nelson County Dam #7 is marked as "Not Rated," regular inspections are conducted with a frequency of once per year to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status, risk assessment, and management measures are also listed as not determined, suggesting a need for further evaluation and planning in case of emergencies or potential risks. The dam is not under the ownership or funding of federal agencies, highlighting the local and state-level responsibility for its maintenance and operation.
Overall, Nelson County Dam #7 presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the complexities of dam regulation, assessment, and management at the state level. As climate change impacts water resources and infrastructure, understanding the safety and functionality of dams like this one is crucial for ensuring the resilience and sustainability of our water systems. Further research and monitoring of Nelson County Dam #7 could provide valuable insights into the intersection of water resource management, climate resilience, and infrastructure maintenance in the region.
Dam Length |
270 |
Dam Height |
29 |
Surface Area |
5.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Nid Storage |
64.03 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rockfish River Near Greenfield
|
33cfs |
James River At Scottsville
|
1470cfs |
Hardware River Bl Briery Run Nr Scottsville
|
52cfs |
Tye River Near Lovingston
|
37cfs |
James River At Bent Creek
|
1290cfs |
Slate River Near Arvonia
|
68cfs |
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.
Nelson County Dam #7