Compton Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Holland Dam Rappahannock Dam #25
Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Compton Dam, located in Culpeper, Virginia, is a private-owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
This dam stands at a height of 38 feet and has a storage capacity of 146.6 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 109.56 acre-feet. Despite its undetermined hazard potential and not being rated for its condition, Compton Dam is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.
The dam, completed in an unspecified year, spans a length of 330 feet and covers a surface area of 8.3 acres. Situated in the Baltimore District, Compton Dam represents an essential water resource in Virginia. Although specific details about its design, purpose, and associated structures are lacking, its location at 38.5609 latitude and -78.0357 longitude underscores its significance in the region's water management and climate resilience efforts.
As climate change continues to impact water resources, the role of dams like Compton Dam in regulating water supply and mitigating flood risks becomes increasingly crucial. With its extensive storage capacity and state-regulated operations, Compton Dam plays a vital role in safeguarding communities and ecosystems in Culpeper, Virginia. Ongoing inspections and enforcement efforts ensure that this dam remains a reliable infrastructure for water resource management in the region.
Dam Length |
330 |
Dam Height |
38 |
Surface Area |
8.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Nid Storage |
146.6 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Hazel River At Rixeyville
|
89cfs |
Battle Run Near Laurel Mills
|
3cfs |
Rappahannock River At Remington
|
219cfs |
Rapidan River Near Culpeper
|
147cfs |
Robinson River Near Locust Dale
|
60cfs |
Cedar Run Near Catlett
|
6cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Compton Dam