Cave Mountain Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Cave Mountain in Rockbridge, Virginia, is a concrete dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Built in 1934 by the USDA Forest Service, this dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a storage capacity of 37 acre-feet. Situated on the Back Run river, Cave Mountain Dam serves as a fish and wildlife pond, providing essential habitat for local species while also offering recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy.

With a maximum discharge of 4000 cubic feet per second and a controlled spillway, the dam's hazard potential is rated as high, with a very high risk assessment. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "Not Rated," indicating a need for further inspection and evaluation. The emergency action plan status and risk management measures for Cave Mountain Dam are not specified, suggesting a potential area for improvement in ensuring the safety and security of the surrounding community in the event of a dam-related emergency.

Overall, Cave Mountain Dam serves as an important water resource and recreational site in Rockbridge, Virginia, managed by the Forest Service. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor and assess the condition and safety of structures like Cave Mountain Dam to ensure sustainable water management practices and effective risk mitigation strategies in the face of changing environmental conditions. By staying informed and proactive in addressing potential hazards and improving emergency preparedness, we can help protect both the natural ecosystem and the local community that rely on this vital water infrastructure.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

145

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

BACK RUN

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

37

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

Valve

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

30
       
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.