Caviness Dam

Carroll, Virginia· 30 ft tall
High Hazard Private

Key Takeaway

Caviness Dam is classified as high hazard in Virginia. 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 30 ft (taller than 67.7% in VA)
Dam Length275 ft
Max Storage46 acre-ft
Normal Storage30 acre-ft
Surface Area3 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
NID IDVA035013

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: No
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Department of Conservation and Recreation

Ownership

Caviness Betsy Chappell

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Caviness Dam?

Caviness 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 Caviness Dam?

Caviness Dam is owned by Caviness Betsy Chappell (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

How tall is Caviness Dam?

Caviness Dam has a dam height of 30 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.

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.