Wolfsnare Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Wolfsnare Lake Dam, also known as City No.


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Summary

13, is nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Virginia Beach, Virginia. This private dam, situated along Wolfsnare Creek, serves a critical purpose in flood risk reduction for the area. With a height of 7 feet and a length of 450 feet, the dam provides storage capacity of 217 acre-feet, helping to mitigate potential flood events and safeguard the local community from the impacts of rising waters.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Wolfsnare Lake Dam has been deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in 2009. The dam's earth construction with buttress core design reflects a commitment to safety and functionality. While the hazard potential remains undetermined, the dam continues to fulfill its primary purpose of flood risk reduction, contributing to the resilience of the region against climate-related challenges.

With its strategic location and crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from inundation, Wolfsnare Lake Dam stands as a testament to effective water resource management and climate resilience efforts. As climate change impacts become more pronounced, the significance of structures like Wolfsnare Lake Dam in safeguarding communities and ecosystems from flooding and water-related risks only grows, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure their continued effectiveness and safety.

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

7

River Or Stream

Wolfsnare Creek - VAHU6 CB25 Lynnhaven River Eastern Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

35

Nid Storage

217

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

7
       
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.