Grant Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lee Lake Dam Wilderness Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Grant Lake Dam, located in Spotsylvania, Virginia, is a privately owned structure designed by A.
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Summary
Morton Thomas and Associates, Inc. This earth dam, with a height of 29.1 feet and a length of 430 feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes along the Widow Tapp Spring. The dam has a storage capacity of 226.2 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 145 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 7.22 acres and draining a 0.64 square mile watershed.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Grant Lake Dam has a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in May 2021. Regular inspections are conducted, with the most recent one taking place in May 2021, to ensure its safety and structural integrity. While the dam does not have a spillway or outlet gates, it meets state regulatory standards and is equipped for recreational use, providing a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.
Grant Lake Dam, situated in a picturesque setting in Virginia, is a vital structure for both water management and recreational activities. With its impressive design and efficient operation, the dam offers a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors to appreciate the beauty of nature while also serving as a crucial element in the region's water resource and climate management efforts. As a low-hazard structure with a strong safety record, Grant Lake Dam stands as a testament to the responsible management of water resources for the benefit of both the environment and the community.
Dam Length |
430 |
Dam Height |
29.1 |
River Or Stream |
Widow Tapp Spring |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.22 |
Hydraulic Height |
29.1 |
Drainage Area |
0.64 |
Nid Storage |
226.2 |
Structural Height |
29.1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Grant Lake Dam