Scotts Mill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Scotts Mill Dam, also known as Lynchburg Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Lynchburg, Virginia, along the James River mainstem.


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Summary

It serves primarily as a water supply source with a storage capacity of 957 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 38,370 cubic feet per second. The dam is classified as a masonry type, specifically a buttress and multi-arch design, with a height of 11 feet and a length of 905 feet.

Despite being considered a low hazard potential structure with fair condition assessment, Scotts Mill Dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia. It is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and has undergone inspection as recent as March 2021, with an inspection frequency of once per year. The dam's risk assessment is moderate, indicating a potential for moderate consequences in the event of failure.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find Scotts Mill Dam to be an intriguing case study due to its historical significance in providing water supply and supporting recreational activities in the region. The dam's location, design characteristics, and regulatory oversight offer valuable insights into the intersection of infrastructure management, environmental conservation, and public safety in the context of water resource management. Further research on the dam's risk management measures and emergency preparedness plans could provide valuable lessons for sustainable dam operation and maintenance practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

905

Dam Height

11

River Or Stream

James River mainstem - VAHU6 JM11 James River - Opossum Creek

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

166.4

Drainage Area

3340

Nid Storage

957

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

11
       
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.