Placid Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Placid Lake Dam, located in Westmoreland, Virginia, is a locally owned earth dam primarily used for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 23 feet with a length of 280 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 256 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, ensuring public safety and environmental protection.

The dam, situated in a picturesque setting with a drainage area of 1.06 square miles, serves as a tranquil retreat for water resource and climate enthusiasts. Its last inspection in June 2019 revealed no significant issues, and the emergency action plan, while last revised in 2013, has ensured preparedness for any potential risks. With the dam contributing to the conservation of water resources and offering recreational opportunities, it remains a vital asset in the region, supported by the community and state agencies.

Owned jointly by the local government and private entities, Placid Lake Dam's significance lies in its role as a recreational hub and its adherence to state regulations for dam safety. With its serene surroundings and functional design, the dam stands as a testament to responsible water management and sustainable infrastructure development in Virginia. As climate change continues to impact water resources, Placid Lake Dam serves as a model for balancing environmental conservation with recreational enjoyment, making it an essential site for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

Dam Length

280

Dam Height

23

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

1.06

Nid Storage

256

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

23
       
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.