University Commons Dam
Key Takeaway
University Commons Dam 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 | 21 ft (taller than 31.6% in VA) |
| Dam Length | 300 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 267 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 143 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 14 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3 sq mi |
| NID ID | VA760008 |
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
University of Richmond
Private
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What is the hazard classification of University Commons Dam?
University Commons 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 University Commons Dam?
University Commons Dam is owned by University of Richmond (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
What is the primary purpose of University Commons Dam?
University Commons 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 University Commons Dam?
University Commons Dam has a dam height of 21 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 University Commons Dam last inspected?
University Commons Dam was last inspected on April 18, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.