College Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

College Lake Dam in Lynchburg, Virginia, is a local government-owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam primarily serves the purpose of recreation and flood risk reduction along the Blackwater Creek. With a height of 35.4 feet and a storage capacity of 680 acre-feet, the dam poses a high hazard potential and is currently assessed to be in poor condition.

Despite its poor condition, the dam has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. It features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 60 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 8100 cubic feet per second. The dam's last inspection in November 2021 revealed its deteriorating state, prompting the need for immediate attention and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the structural integrity of the dam.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find College Lake Dam's data and risk assessment intriguing, highlighting the importance of effective monitoring, maintenance, and emergency preparedness for critical infrastructure in the face of climate change and increasing water resource challenges. This information underscores the need for proactive measures to address the dam's poor condition and mitigate potential risks associated with its high hazard potential, ultimately safeguarding the community and enhancing the resilience of water resource systems in the region.

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

35.4

River Or Stream

Blackwater Creek - VAHU6 JM10 - Blackwater Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15

Drainage Area

21.7

Nid Storage

680

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

35
       
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.