Illum Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Located in Patrick, Virginia, the Illum Dam is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 40 feet with a length of 200 feet, the earth dam has a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 40 acre-feet. While the dam's hazard potential is currently undetermined and its condition has not been rated, it is subject to state inspection, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

Operated by private owners, the Illum Dam serves a vital role in managing water resources in the region, with a surface area of 2.9 acres. Although the dam's primary purpose and construction year are unspecified, its presence contributes to the overall hydrological system of the area. Despite lacking detailed information on its risk assessment, emergency preparedness, and maintenance history, the dam's significant size and regulatory oversight indicate its importance in water resource management and climate resilience efforts.

Situated in the Huntington District and overseen by the state of Virginia, the Illum Dam plays a crucial role in water storage and flood control in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and assess the dam's condition and regulatory compliance, its impact on the local ecosystem and water security remains a key area of interest. Through continued inspection, enforcement, and potential risk management measures, the Illum Dam represents a focal point for sustainable water resource management and climate adaptation initiatives in the area.

Dam Length

200

Dam Height

40

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.9

Hydraulic Height

40

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

40

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

40
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.