Muddiman Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Muddiman Dam, located in Appomattox, Virginia, on the South Fork of the Appomattox River, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 33.75 feet, with a length of 300 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 319.41 acre-feet. While the hazard potential is currently undetermined and the condition assessment is not rated, the dam is under state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.

Despite its moderate risk assessment, Muddiman Dam provides a valuable recreational resource for the community, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife observation in the surrounding area. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and lack of outlet gates suggest a focus on natural water flow management, contributing to the ecological health of the river system. While the dam's last inspection took place in June 2020, its emergency action plan status and risk management measures are currently unspecified.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable dam infrastructure and recreational water management in Virginia may find Muddiman Dam a compelling case study. With its location in a scenic natural setting and regulatory oversight by the state, the dam presents a unique blend of environmental conservation and recreational activities that showcase the delicate balance between human enjoyment and ecosystem preservation in water resource management.

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

33.75

River Or Stream

South Fork of the Appomattox River - VAHU6 JA01 Appomattox River - Wolf Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17.54

Hydraulic Height

33.75

Drainage Area

2.06

Nid Storage

319.41

Structural Height

33.75

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

34
       
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.