South River Dam #4
Key Takeaway
South River Dam #4 is classified as high hazard in Virginia. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 56 ft (taller than 95.2% in VA) |
| Dam Length | 720 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 890 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 40 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| NID ID | VA015011 |
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
Headwaters Soil and Water Conservation District
Local Government
Nearby Dams
South River Dam #3
Augusta, VA
Significant Hazard 47 ftSouth River Dam #6
Augusta, VA
High Hazard 56 ftUpper Wallace Dam
Augusta, VA
High Hazard 37 ftLower Wallace Dam
Augusta, VA
Low Hazard 23 ftFauber Dam
Augusta, VA
Unknown 32 ftSediment Pond 2
Augusta, VA
Significant Hazard 15 ftSediment Pond 1
Augusta, VA
Significant Hazard 15 ftSediment Pond 3
Augusta, VA
Significant Hazard 15 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of South River Dam #4?
South River Dam #4 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 South River Dam #4?
South River Dam #4 is owned by Headwaters Soil and Water Conservation District (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
What is the primary purpose of South River Dam #4?
South River Dam #4 serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is South River Dam #4?
South River Dam #4 has a dam height of 56 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 South River Dam #4 last inspected?
South River Dam #4 was last inspected on March 24, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.