Chancellor West Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Chancellor West Dam, also known as Spotsylvania County Dam #4, is a private earth dam located in Spotsylvania, Virginia.


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Summary

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this dam serves primarily for recreational purposes with a maximum storage capacity of 81 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 45.6 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 25 feet and spans 500 feet in length, creating a surface area of 5.7 acres.

Although the hazard potential and condition assessment of Chancellor West Dam are currently undetermined and not rated, the dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The inspection frequency is set at once per year, ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure. Additionally, emergency action plans are in place, though details on their preparedness and guidelines adherence are not specified in the available data.

Overall, Chancellor West Dam presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the intersection of private ownership, recreational usage, state regulation, and safety measures in dam management. Its location in the Baltimore District adds to the complexity of its oversight and maintenance, making it a valuable asset for those interested in understanding the dynamics of dam infrastructure in the context of environmental stewardship and public safety.

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

25

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.7

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

81

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.