Shoemaker River # 4c Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Shoemaker River # 4c, also known as Slate Lick Dam, is a vital piece of infrastructure located in Rockingham, Virginia.


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Summary

This local government-owned structure plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction along Slate Lick Creek, with a dam height of 86 feet and a storage capacity of 2159 acre-feet. The dam, primarily constructed of earth material, serves as a key defense against potential hazards, as indicated by its high hazard potential rating.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Shoemaker River # 4c has undergone regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The dam's condition assessment in March 2020 deemed it satisfactory, highlighting its continued effectiveness in mitigating flood risks in the region. With a drainage area of 6.07 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 25202 cubic feet per second, this dam stands as a crucial safeguard for the surrounding community.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and increase the frequency of extreme weather events, structures like Shoemaker River # 4c play a vital role in protecting communities from potential flooding and related hazards. With its strategic location and high hazard potential designation, this dam serves as a key component of the region's resilience against the growing threats posed by a changing climate.

Dam Length

825

Dam Height

86

River Or Stream

Slate Lick Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

22

Hydraulic Height

86

Drainage Area

6.07

Nid Storage

2159

Structural Height

86

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

86
       
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.