Upper Blackwater River Dam #4
Key Takeaway
Upper Blackwater 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 | 52 ft (taller than 93.9% in VA) |
| Dam Length | 540 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 338 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 65 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 10 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| NID ID | VA067002 |
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
Blue Ridge Soil and Water Conservation District
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Upper Blackwater River Dam #6
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Unknown 41 ftPark Ridge Dam
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Significant Hazard 20 ftBowmans Dam
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Unknown 28 ftFitts Dam
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Unknown 37 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Upper Blackwater River Dam #4?
Upper Blackwater 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 Upper Blackwater River Dam #4?
Upper Blackwater River Dam #4 is owned by Blue Ridge 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 Upper Blackwater River Dam #4?
Upper Blackwater River Dam #4 serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Upper Blackwater River Dam #4?
Upper Blackwater River Dam #4 has a dam height of 52 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 Upper Blackwater River Dam #4 last inspected?
Upper Blackwater River Dam #4 was last inspected on July 18, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.