Lower Lakes Dam

Dog Branch· Hanover, Virginia· Earth· 21 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Lower Lakes Dam is classified as significant hazard in Virginia. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 21 ft (taller than 31.6% in VA)
Dam Length600 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage150 acre-ft
Normal Storage78 acre-ft
Surface Area13 acres
Drainage Area1 sq mi
NID IDVA085054

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

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

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: November 15, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Department of Conservation and Recreation

Ownership

Lakeview Estates HOA

Private

Nearby Dams

Stanley Dam

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High Hazard 36 ft

Pollards Dam

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Upper Swm Pond @ Mountain Run

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Farrington Dam

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Lower Swm Pond @ Mountain Run

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Lake Claybank Dam

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Kings Pond Dam

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Luck Pond Dam

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Significant Hazard 18 ft

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lower Lakes Dam?

Lower Lakes Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Lower Lakes Dam?

Lower Lakes Dam is owned by Lakeview Estates HOA (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Lower Lakes Dam?

Lower Lakes 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 Lower Lakes Dam?

Lower Lakes Dam has a dam height of 21 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 Lower Lakes Dam last inspected?

Lower Lakes Dam was last inspected on November 15, 2022. 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.