Swift Creek Reservoir Dam

SWIFT CREEK· Chesterfield, Virginia· Earth· 44 ft tall
High Hazard Water Supply Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Swift Creek Reservoir 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 44 ft (taller than 90.2% in VA)
Dam Length1,110 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage50.6K acre-ft
Normal Storage12.2K acre-ft
Surface Area1,660 acres
Drainage Area64 sq mi
NID IDVA041012

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: November 1, 2021
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Department of Conservation and Recreation

Ownership

Chesterfield County Utilities Department

Local Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Swift Creek Reservoir Dam?

Swift Creek Reservoir 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 Swift Creek Reservoir Dam?

Swift Creek Reservoir Dam is owned by Chesterfield County Utilities Department (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Swift Creek Reservoir Dam?

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

How tall is Swift Creek Reservoir Dam?

Swift Creek Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 44 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 Swift Creek Reservoir Dam last inspected?

Swift Creek Reservoir Dam was last inspected on November 1, 2021. 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.