Spring Vale Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Spring Vale Dam, located in Orange, Virginia, is a privately owned earth dam standing at a height of 36.4 feet and stretching 1560 feet in length.


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Summary

The dam's primary purpose is for recreation, specifically harnessing the waters of Mountain Run for various activities. With a storage capacity of 329 acre-feet and a surface area of 18 acres, Spring Vale Dam provides a picturesque setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and enjoy.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Spring Vale Dam is classified as having a significant hazard potential. Despite this, its condition remains unrated as of the last inspection in November 2016. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in June 2008, and it is unclear whether it meets current guidelines. Water enthusiasts visiting Spring Vale Dam can appreciate its natural beauty while remaining aware of the potential risks associated with its significant hazard potential, underscoring the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and preservation of this recreational water resource.

Situated within the Baltimore District, Spring Vale Dam offers a tranquil escape for visitors seeking outdoor activities in a scenic setting. While the dam's precise construction year is unknown, its presence along Mountain Run adds to the charm of the Orange, Virginia landscape. With its ample storage capacity and regulated state jurisdiction, Spring Vale Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and natural beauty, serving as a reminder of the crucial role water resources play in our environment and the need for responsible stewardship to protect them for future generations.

Dam Length

1560

Dam Height

36.4

River Or Stream

Mountain Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Hydraulic Height

36.4

Drainage Area

0.59

Nid Storage

329

Structural Height

36.4

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

36
       
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.