Luray Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Luray is a captivating hydroelectric dam located on the South Fork Shenandoah River in Virginia, specifically in Rileyville.


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Summary

Built in 1927, this buttress dam stands at a height of 21.9 feet and serves a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation. With a normal storage capacity of 880 acre-feet and a surface area of 126 acres, Luray plays a vital role in the region's water resource management.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Luray has a low hazard potential and moderate risk assessment. Its uncontrolled spillway has a width of 525 feet, ensuring efficient water release during times of excess flow. Despite not being state-regulated, Luray undergoes regular inspections every three years to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. The dam's location in Page, Virginia, adds to its significance as a key component of the region's water infrastructure.

With its historical significance and ongoing contribution to hydroelectric power generation, Luray stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data on Luray provides insight into the importance of sustainable infrastructure development and the critical role that dams play in meeting both energy needs and environmental stewardship in the face of changing climate patterns.

Year Completed

1927

Dam Length

669

Dam Height

21.9

River Or Stream

South Fork Shenandoah River

Primary Dam Type

Buttress

Surface Area

126

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

1383

Nid Storage

880

Structural Height

21.9

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

22
       
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.