Owning an existing dam comes with responsibilities. Foremost, the dam – and its various appurtenances (or working elements, such as outfalls, gates, and spillways) must be maintained, including: 

• keeping the embankment free of erosion, trees, and burrowing rodents 

• ensuring towers, risers, culverts, channels and other conveyance infrastructure remains in good condition – for instance, replacing corroded metal culverts or installing riprap to address channel erosion 

• noting and addressing excessive seepage through the dam or unusual settlement 

In addition to the fundamental act of maintaining the dam, DCR requires that owners of regulated dams take additional steps to mitigate the risk of dam failure and reduce potential impacts to downstream people and properties. Regulatory responsibilities include: 

• periodic inspections by the owner and/or a licensed professional 

• developing and implementing a maintenance and operation plan

• developing an emergency action plan 

• determining the hazard potential classification and delineating the dam break inundation zone through a technical analysis 

To learn more about dam maintenance and regulatory responsibilities, visit DCR’s Dam Safety Program website. 

County Assistance 

The County recognizes that it may be challenging for dam owners to detect deficiencies with their dam, identify what upkeep their dam may need, or to fully understand the Virginia regulatory landscape. If you would like receive assistance from County staff having dam expertise, please fill out the assistance form by clicking here, or send an email to dam@albemarle.org, or call the Department of Facilities and Environmental Services at 434-296-5816.