Natural Bridge Dam # 5, located in Natural Bridge, Virginia, is a concrete structure primarily used for recreation.
Wind
Humidity
Standing at a height of 35.4 feet and with a length of 210 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 66.5 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 0.59 acres. The dam is situated on Cedar Creek, serving as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation.
Despite its recreational appeal, Natural Bridge Dam # 5 is classified as having a high hazard potential and a poor condition assessment as of the last inspection in November 2018. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 47 feet, and it lacks outlet gates for controlled water release. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating the need for careful monitoring and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the environment.
Managed by a private owner in conjunction with the state of Virginia, Natural Bridge Dam # 5 falls under the regulatory oversight of the Department of Conservation and Recreation. With state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, efforts are being made to address the dam's condition and mitigate potential risks. Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of dam infrastructure, recreation, and environmental preservation may find Natural Bridge Dam # 5 an intriguing case study of balancing human enjoyment with safety and sustainability considerations.
Dam Length |
210 |
Dam Height |
35.4 |
River Or Stream |
Cedar Creek - VAHU6 JU59 Cedar Creek - Spring Gap Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
0.59 |
Drainage Area |
15.4 |
Nid Storage |
66.5 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
35 |