Virginia Dam Safety Act regulates all dams in the Commonwealth.   There are only two naturally occurring lakes in

Virginia; all other lakes are provided by a dam

  The Virginia Soil & Water Conservation Board (VSWCB) oversees the regulation of dams in Virginia   The Department of Conservation & Recreations

Division of Dam Safety and Floodplain Management implements decisions of the Board and acts a liaison to dam owners for the Board.

  In response to the failure of levees and dams after Hurricane Katrina – the Virginia General Assembly made changes to the Virginia Dam Safety Act in 2006.

  In response to the changes made, the VSWCB approved amendments to Chapter 20 of the Code of Virginia in February of 2008; these changes became effective in September 2009.

  Changes made:   Classification system for Dams in Virginia was modified; the formerly four category (I-IV) dam

classification system was reduced to three (High, Significant & Low).   The term “hazard” was more clearly defined, citing that the existence of a hazard was directly

related to the loss of human life and economic damage.   In support of a dam’s hazard classification, the Board required that an engineer submit zone

mapping to identify the extent of inundation by water in the event of a dam failure.   An Emergency Preparedness Plan must be submitted identifying the names and contact

information of key personnel and of those likely affected in the event of a dam failure.

  Originally categorized as a Class IV dam, Peacock Hill Dam is expected to be classified as a Low Hazard Dam.

  Peacock Hill has been issued a Conditional Certificate for Operation by Dam Safety and the VSWCB.

  If classified as a Low Hazard Dam – Peacock Hill Dam will require re-certification again in six years (2017).

  As long as no changes in the impact of the dam occur, the inundation zone mapping CAN be re-used.   Changes that would affect the dam and require new maps be

created include any alteration to the emergency spillway, principle spillway, height of embankment, capacity of water; or, if any significant housing developments arise either up or down stream from the dam.

Engineering Firm Cost

Froehling & Robertson $12,787.50

W&W Associates $15,510.00

Wiley & Wilson $16,500.00

GKY Inc $25,602.50

Schnabel $26,620.00

Hurt & Profitt $28,833.20

Draper Aden $44,385.00

  Established in 1881 – they are the oldest Engineering firm in the United States. Hold offices in North & South Carolina, Virginia and Maryland

  Highly recommended by members of DCR – professional engineers who oversee the Dam Safety Inspections.

  Highly recommended by former clients as effective and capable of processing inspections through DCR.

  www.fandr.com

  Dam Safety Inspection is required by state statutes and regulations.

  Dam Safety Inspection requirements will help facilitate good management of dam, permit us the opportunity to recognize needed repairs early and hopefully help prevent future, costly dam repairs.

  In order to complete the required inspection, the Association must approve a Special Assessment of $75 per lot ($37.50 unimproved lots).