Natural Bridge Dam # 5
Key Takeaway
Natural Bridge Dam # 5 is classified as high hazard in Virginia. 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 | 35 ft (taller than 80% in VA) |
| Dam Length | 210 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 67 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 61 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1 acres |
| Drainage Area | 15 sq mi |
| NID ID | VA163013 |
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
Department of Conservation and Recreation State Parks, Natural Bridge;VCLF Land Trust
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Natural Bridge Dam # 5?
Natural Bridge Dam # 5 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 Natural Bridge Dam # 5?
Natural Bridge Dam # 5 is owned by Department of Conservation and Recreation State Parks, Natural Bridge;VCLF Land Trust (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
What is the primary purpose of Natural Bridge Dam # 5?
Natural Bridge Dam # 5 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 Natural Bridge Dam # 5?
Natural Bridge Dam # 5 has a dam height of 35 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 Natural Bridge Dam # 5 last inspected?
Natural Bridge Dam # 5 was last inspected on November 16, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.