Hobby Hill Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Winston Lake Dam Cherokee Dam
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
Hobby Hill Dam, located in Richmond City, Virginia, along the James River, is a local government-owned structure primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a storage capacity of 193 acre-feet. Despite its recreational purpose, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with the last inspection in August 2020 revealing potential hazards that are currently undetermined.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Hobby Hill Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment remain unspecified, highlighting potential areas for improvement in ensuring the safety and security of the surrounding community and water resources. With its proximity to the James River, a vital natural resource, ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts are crucial to mitigate any potential risks associated with the dam's condition.
Dam Height |
25 |
River Or Stream |
TR-JAMES RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
193 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James River And Kanawha Canal Near Richmond
|
131cfs |
James River Near Richmond
|
2040cfs |
Fine Creek At Fine Creek Mills
|
47cfs |
Appomattox River At Mattoax
|
522cfs |
South Anna River Near Ashland
|
162cfs |
Totopotomoy Creek Near Studley
|
116cfs |
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.
Hobby Hill Dam
Riverside Drive Richmond