Tusculum Dam

CRAWFORD CREEK· Amherst, Virginia· Earth· 25 ft tall
Significant Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Tusculum Dam is classified as significant hazard in Virginia. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 25 ft (taller than 46.7% in VA)
Dam Length300 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage252 acre-ft
Normal Storage233 acre-ft
Surface Area35 acres
Drainage Area2 sq mi
NID IDVA009026

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: January 19, 2018
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Department of Conservation and Recreation

Ownership

Tusculum Lake Estates Property Owners Association

Private

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Tusculum Dam?

Tusculum Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Tusculum Dam?

Tusculum Dam is owned by Tusculum Lake Estates Property Owners Association (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Tusculum Dam?

Tusculum 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 Tusculum Dam?

Tusculum Dam has a dam height of 25 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 Tusculum Dam last inspected?

Tusculum Dam was last inspected on January 19, 2018. 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.