Cosby Dam
Key Takeaway
Cosby Dam is classified as high hazard in Virginia. It was completed in 1956 and is 70 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 17 ft (taller than 17.7% in VA) |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 85 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 24 acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1956 (70 years old) |
| NID ID | VA041005 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
Watermark Properties, LLC
Private
Nearby Dams
Jessup Road Dam
Chesterfield, VA
Unknown 35 ftClub Dam
Chesterfield, VA
Unknown 22 ftSwift Creek Dam
Chesterfield, VA
High Hazard 31 ftMeadowbrook Country Club Dam
Chesterfield, VA
Unknown 28 ftIronbridge Dam
Chesterfield, VA
Unknown 23 ftFalling Creek Reservoir Dam
Chesterfield, VA
High Hazard 34 ftChelsea Farm Dam
Chesterfield, VA
Unknown 22 ftNapiers Savage Dam
Chesterfield, VA
Significant Hazard 26 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Cosby Dam?
Cosby 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 Cosby Dam?
Cosby Dam is owned by Watermark Properties, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Cosby Dam built?
Cosby Dam was completed in 1956, making it 70 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Cosby Dam?
Cosby Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Cosby Dam?
Cosby Dam has a dam height of 17 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.