Hollymead Dam
Key Takeaway
Hollymead Dam is classified as high hazard in Virginia. It was completed in 1974 and is 52 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 | 43 ft (taller than 89.5% in VA) |
| Dam Length | 300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 640 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 212 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 12 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1974 (52 years old) |
| NID ID | VA003174 |
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
Albemarle County;Albemarle County Local Government
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Hollymead Dam?
Hollymead 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 Hollymead Dam?
Hollymead Dam is owned by Albemarle County;Albemarle County Local Government (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Hollymead Dam built?
Hollymead Dam was completed in 1974, making it 52 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 Hollymead Dam?
Hollymead 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 Hollymead Dam?
Hollymead Dam has a dam height of 43 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 Hollymead Dam last inspected?
Hollymead Dam was last inspected on November 17, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.