Moores Creek Dam

Moore Creek - VAHU6 JU83 North Buffalo Creek· Rockbridge, Virginia· Earth· 82 ft tall
High Hazard Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Moores Creek Dam is classified as high hazard in Virginia. Its primary use is water supply. 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 82 ft (taller than 97.8% in VA)
Dam Length850 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage853 acre-ft
Normal Storage643 acre-ft
Surface Area25 acres
Drainage Area2 sq mi
Max Discharge5,920 cfs
NID IDVA163003

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: Yes
Last Inspection: October 4, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Department of Conservation and Recreation

Ownership

City of Lexington;City of Lexington;City of Lexington

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Moores Creek Dam?

Moores Creek 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 Moores Creek Dam?

Moores Creek Dam is owned by City of Lexington;City of Lexington;City of Lexington (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Moores Creek Dam?

Moores Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Moores Creek Dam?

Moores Creek Dam has a dam height of 82 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 Moores Creek Dam last inspected?

Moores Creek Dam was last inspected on October 4, 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.