Cushaw
Cushaw is a gravity dam located in Amherst County, Virginia, built in 1930. It carries a Low hazard potential classification and has a satisfactory condition assessment.
About Cushaw
The primary purpose of Cushaw is hydroelectric. The dam generates hydroelectric power by channeling water through turbines, converting the energy of flowing water into electricity. The dam is owned by Cushaw Hydro Llc (private). It impounds the James.
The dam stands 26 feet tall and stretches 1,716 feet across, creates a reservoir covering 138 acres, has a maximum storage capacity of 380 acre-feet, and collects water from a drainage area of 2,960 square miles. Completed in 1930, the structure is well-established, with more than 75 years of service.
This dam has a low hazard potential classification, meaning that failure would cause minimal damage, limited primarily to the dam owner's property, with no expected loss of life. Its condition is rated satisfactory, indicating no existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. The most recent inspection on record was 06/26/2019.
Search for dams near your address to see all dams in your area with hazard classifications and safety data.
Location
| State | Virginia |
| County | Amherst |
| Nearest City | None |
| River/Stream | James |
| Coordinates | 37.59337, -79.38294 |
Physical Characteristics
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| NID Height | 26 ft |
| Dam Height | 26 ft |
| Dam Length | 1,716 ft |
| Year Completed | 1930 (96 years old) |
Storage & Hydraulics
| NID Storage | 380 acre-ft |
| Max Storage | 380 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 380 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 138 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2,960 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 68,340 cfs |
| Spillway Type | Uncontrolled |
Ownership & Safety
| Purpose | Hydroelectric |
| Owner | Cushaw Hydro LLC |
| Owner Type | Private |
| Hazard Classification | Low |
| Condition Assessment | Satisfactory |
| Last Inspection | 06/26/2019 |
| Emergency Action Plan | Not Required |
Identifiers
| NID ID | VA009001 |
| Federal ID | VA009001 |
| More Info | State Dam Safety Program |