Carvin Cove Dam

CARVINS CREEK· Botetourt, Virginia· Masonry· 85 ft tall

High Hazard Water Supply Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Carvin Cove Dam is classified as high hazard in Virginia. Its primary use is water supply. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height	85 ft (taller than 97.9% in VA)
Dam Length	315 ft
Dam Type	Masonry
Max Storage	23.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage	20.5K acre-ft

Surface Area	569 acres
Drainage Area	18 sq mi
NID ID	VA023001

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes

Last Inspection: October 5, 2021

State Regulated: Yes

Regulatory Agency: Department of Conservation and Recreation

Ownership

Western Virginia Water Authority

Local Government

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Carvin Cove Dam?

Carvin Cove Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Carvin Cove Dam?

Carvin Cove Dam is owned by Western Virginia Water Authority (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Carvin Cove Dam?

Carvin Cove Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Carvin Cove Dam?

Carvin Cove Dam has a dam height of 85 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Carvin Cove Dam last inspected?

Carvin Cove Dam was last inspected on October 5, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.