Lake Anna Dam And Reservoir Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Lake Anna Dam and Reservoir, also known as the Main Dam, is a captivating water resource marvel located in Louisa, Virginia.
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Summary
Built in 1972 by Stone & Webster Engineering Corp., this earth dam stands at an impressive height of 90 feet with a hydraulic height of 94.2 feet and a structural height of 100 feet. The reservoir's primary purpose is to supply water, with a storage capacity of 487,000 acre-feet and a surface area of 13,000 acres. The dam controls the flow of the North Anna River, with a maximum discharge capacity of 142,000 cubic feet per second.
Managed by a public utility, Lake Anna Dam and Reservoir is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure safety and functionality. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 140 feet and is associated with five other structures in the area. Despite its high hazard potential, the risk assessment for the dam is rated as very high (1), highlighting the importance of effective risk management measures. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) is periodically reviewed and updated to meet safety guidelines.
Visitors to Lake Anna Dam and Reservoir can marvel at its impressive engineering design and picturesque surroundings, making it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts. With its crucial role in water supply and its impact on the surrounding ecosystem, this dam and reservoir serve as a vital resource for the region's water management and conservation efforts. Its rich history, design features, and regulatory oversight make it an intriguing site for those interested in the intersection of water resources, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability.
Year Completed |
1972 |
Dam Length |
5150 |
Dam Height |
90 |
River Or Stream |
North Anna |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13000 |
Hydraulic Height |
94.2 |
Drainage Area |
343 |
Nid Storage |
487000 |
Structural Height |
100 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 2, Tainter (radial) - 3 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
100 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lake Anna Dam And Reservoir