Lower Sherando Dam
Key Takeaway
Lower Sherando Dam is classified as high hazard in Virginia. It was completed in 1934 and is 92 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 | 38 ft (taller than 84.6% in VA) |
| Dam Length | 335 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 393 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 170 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 0 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 2,844 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1934 (92 years old) |
| NID ID | VA015020 |
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
USDA FS
Federal Government
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Low Hazard 35 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Sherando Dam?
Lower Sherando 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 Lower Sherando Dam?
Lower Sherando Dam is owned by USDA FS (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lower Sherando Dam built?
Lower Sherando Dam was completed in 1934, making it 92 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 Lower Sherando Dam?
Lower Sherando Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Fish And Wildlife Pond. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lower Sherando Dam?
Lower Sherando Dam has a dam height of 38 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 Sherando Dam last inspected?
Lower Sherando Dam was last inspected on March 26, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.