Sleepy Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Sleepy Lake Dam, also known as Chuckatuck Creek Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Suffolk, Virginia.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and spans 565 feet in length, holding a storage capacity of 125 acre-feet. While primarily constructed for recreational purposes, the dam also serves as a flood control measure for Chuckatuck Creek direct. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam is regulated by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, with inspections conducted annually to ensure its safety and functionality.

Situated in the Norfolk District, Sleepy Lake Dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 55 feet and covers a surface area of 50 acres. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 72.4 acre-feet and drains a small watershed area of 0.39 square miles. With its moderate risk assessment rating, the structure has not undergone any significant modifications since its completion. Emergency action plans and risk management measures are not specifically outlined for this dam, suggesting a need for continued monitoring and preparedness in the event of any unforeseen incidents.

Owned by a private entity, Sleepy Lake Dam plays a crucial role in providing both recreational opportunities and flood control measures in the region. Despite its relatively low hazard potential and satisfactory condition, the dam's regulatory oversight by the state underscores the importance of maintaining its integrity to safeguard the surrounding community and environment. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to stay informed about the status and management of such structures to ensure their continued safety and functionality for years to come.

Dam Length

565

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

Chuckatuck Creek direct - VAHU6 JL42 Chuckatuck Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Drainage Area

0.39

Nid Storage

125

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

10
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.