York Meadows Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
York Meadows Dam, located in York, Virginia, serves as a crucial infrastructure for flood risk reduction along the tributary of Big Bethel Reservoir.
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Summary
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this earth dam stands at 15 feet high and spans a length of 1200 feet, providing a storage capacity of 138 acre-feet. While its hazard potential is currently undetermined and its condition remains unrated, the dam undergoes regular inspections and is subject to state regulation, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its integrity and safety.
Despite lacking certain details such as the year of completion and specific structural features like spillways or outlet gates, York Meadows Dam remains a key component in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding events. The dam's primary purpose, as well as its associated flood risk reduction purposes, highlight its vital role in protecting the community and managing water resources effectively. With its location in the Norfolk District and oversight by the state of Virginia, the dam plays a significant role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and assess the impact of dams like York Meadows Dam, the need for comprehensive risk assessment, emergency preparedness, and ongoing maintenance becomes increasingly important. While the dam's current risk management measures and emergency action plans are not specified in the available data, the collaborative efforts of regulatory agencies, state authorities, and the local community are essential in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions and potential hazards.
Dam Length |
1200 |
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
trib. Big Bethel Reservoir |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
138 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Bethel Military
Gosnolds Hope Park
Newport News Park campground - F Loop
Newport News Park campground - E Loop
Newport News Park campground - D Loop
Newport News City Park
York Meadows Dam
Tide Mill Road 711, York County