HANOVER COUNTY, Va. (WRIC) — The Hanover County Fire-EMS Department, following multi-day efforts to lower the water levels at the Mattawan Dam, has discovered what compromised the dam.
According to multiple press releases from the department, crews have been pumping water out of the lake at the Mattawan Dam since discovering potential issues with its integrity on Tuesday, March 5.
Emergency road closures were implemented and surrounding residents were notified, both in the interest of public safety.
As of Thursday, March 7, nearly 20 inches of water had been pumped from the lake. Continued efforts into Friday, March 8, brought the water to a depth considered safe by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation.
According to the department, officials with the county and the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation were able to assess the dam following the reduction of water levels. The dam is comprised due to the primary spillway collapsing, which caused “significant erosion” around the collapsed pipe.
An assessment by the department found that no structures or residences are at risk as of Friday. Still, the scene remains actively monitored due to forecasted rain.
“Despite the successful water level reduction, vigilant monitoring of the dam and water levels will continue throughout the weekend,” said the department in a press release. “This proactive approach is especially crucial with impending rainfall forecasted over the next 24 hours. The County remains committed to maintaining the integrity of the Mattawan Dam and safeguarding the well-being of our residents.”
As of 6 p.m. Friday, the road closure at Williamsville Road has been lifted. However, the closure at Pine Slash Road remains as evaluations continue in the area. Drivers are asked to continue to heed the posted detours and avoid the area surrounding the dam.
“Ensuring the safety of our residents remains our primary concern, and we are actively implementing measures to address the situation proactively,” the department said.
This is a developing story, stay with 8News for updates.
