Ararat River Dam #64 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ararat River Dam #64, located in Patrick, Virginia, is a vital flood risk reduction structure managed by the local government.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 36 feet and spans 412 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 113 acre-feet. Situated on Wolfe Creek, it serves to protect the surrounding community from potential flooding events, showcasing its importance in safeguarding the area's water resources.

Although last inspected in 2002 and rated with a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated, highlighting the need for periodic evaluations to ensure its continued effectiveness. Despite its age, the dam's integrity and functionality are upheld by state-regulated inspections, permitting, and enforcement efforts by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia. With a primary purpose of flood risk reduction, Ararat River Dam #64 plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of infrastructure like Ararat River Dam #64 underscores the importance of proactive measures in mitigating flood risks and preserving the integrity of our natural water systems. By staying informed on the dam's condition, regulatory oversight, and emergency preparedness, individuals can contribute to the collective efforts in ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water resources amidst changing environmental conditions and potential hazards.

Dam Length

412

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

WOLFE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.6

Hydraulic Height

36

Drainage Area

0.51

Nid Storage

113

Structural Height

36

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

36
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.