Hale Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Hale Dam, located in Northumberland, Virginia, is a key water resource for the region, serving primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at a height of 24 feet and stretching 305 feet in length, holds a storage capacity of 185 acre-feet. Situated on tributary Lodge Creek, the dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, ensuring its maintenance and safety for the surrounding community.

Although the hazard potential of the dam is currently undetermined and its condition remains unrated, regular inspections are conducted to ensure its integrity. Emergency action plans are in place, though details regarding their preparation and adherence to guidelines are not specified. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams like Hale Dam becomes increasingly critical to ensure the safety of communities and ecosystems in the face of changing conditions.

As climate and water resource enthusiasts, it is essential to keep a close eye on structures like Hale Dam to understand their role in local water management and potential vulnerabilities to climate-related risks. By staying informed about the regulatory oversight, maintenance efforts, and emergency preparedness surrounding Hale Dam, enthusiasts can contribute to efforts to mitigate risks and protect water resources in the face of a changing climate.

Dam Length

305

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

trib. Lodge Creek

Hydraulic Height

24

Nid Storage

185

Structural Height

24

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

24
       
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.