Lake Virginia Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Virginia Dam, located in Somervell, Texas, is a privately owned structure designed by R G BROWN in 1987.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 57 feet with a hydraulic height matching it, reaching a structural height of 68 feet. Serving purposes such as fire protection, stock, and recreation, the dam holds a normal storage capacity of 895 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 46.7 acres.

Managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ), the dam overlooks the TR-Brazos River and is under state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With an uncontrolled spillway type and a spillway width of 130 feet, it has an associated drainage area of 1.29 square miles. The dam's condition is assessed as fair, with a moderate risk level, and its emergency action plan was last revised in February 2017.

Despite its relatively modest dimensions, Lake Virginia Dam plays a crucial role in providing fire protection and recreational opportunities in the region. Its strategic location and design elements make it a vital component of water resource management in Somervell, Texas, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in its structural details and operational significance.

Year Completed

1987

Dam Length

845

Dam Height

57

River Or Stream

TR-BRAZOS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

46.7

Hydraulic Height

57

Drainage Area

1.29

Nid Storage

1169

Structural Height

68

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1, Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Not Available

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

68
       
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.