Swans Dam
Key Takeaway
Swans Dam is classified as high hazard in Virginia. It was completed in 1973 and is 53 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 | 24 ft (taller than 42.5% in VA) |
| Dam Length | 1,125 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 3.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 351 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 95 acres |
| Drainage Area | 23 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1973 (53 years old) |
| NID ID | VA049012 |
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
WTL Properties, LLC;Wildwood Land Corp
Private
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Unknown 24 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Swans Dam?
Swans 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 Swans Dam?
Swans Dam is owned by WTL Properties, LLC;Wildwood Land Corp (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Swans Dam built?
Swans Dam was completed in 1973, making it 53 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 Swans Dam?
Swans 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 Swans Dam?
Swans Dam has a dam height of 24 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.