Murcielago Lake Dam
Key Takeaway
Murcielago Lake Dam is classified as high hazard in Virginia. It was completed in 1900 and is 126 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 | 41 ft (taller than 87.7% in VA) |
| Dam Length | 700 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 875 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 516 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 38 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1900 (126 years old) |
| NID ID | VA003147 |
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
Murcielago Enterprises, LLC
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Murcielago Lake Dam?
Murcielago Lake 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 Murcielago Lake Dam?
Murcielago Lake Dam is owned by Murcielago Enterprises, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Murcielago Lake Dam built?
Murcielago Lake Dam was completed in 1900, making it 126 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 Murcielago Lake Dam?
Murcielago Lake 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 Murcielago Lake Dam?
Murcielago Lake Dam has a dam height of 41 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 Murcielago Lake Dam last inspected?
Murcielago Lake Dam was last inspected on May 14, 1991. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.