VIRGINIA RESERVOIR REPORT

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

In Virginia, a recent analysis of the state's major dams and reservoirs reveals that some are exhibiting atypical water levels for the season. Specifically, the Philpott Reservoir at Philpott Dam near Philpott is currently recording a water surface elevation of 967 feet above the National Geodetic Vertical Datum of 1929 (NGVD 1929), which is notably below its average of 972.33 feet. This deviation could suggest potential concerns regarding water supply and management. On the other hand, the Little River Reservoir near Radford shows less variation from its average level (1771.91 feet above the North American Vertical Datum of 1988 (NAVD 1988)), measuring at 1771 feet on its last observation. These levels offer insight into the reservoirs’ current statuses, which are critical for water resource management, recreational activities, and local ecology.

The lower-than-average level at Philpott Reservoir could indicate an array of issues such as decreased precipitation, lower river flows, or increased demand for water usage. Since reservoir levels are influenced by a combination of factors, including snowpack meltwater contributions and river inflows, the observed discrepancy at Philpott Reservoir may also be reflective of broader climatic or hydrologic changes in the region. It is essential to corroborate these findings with additional data sources, such as snowpack measurements and river flow records, to ascertain the underlying causes and to implement appropriate management responses. Meanwhile, the stability of the water level at Little River Reservoir suggests normal operating conditions at that site. Continuous monitoring remains crucial for both sites to ensure responsible stewardship of these water resources and to mitigate any potential negative impacts associated with abnormal conditions.

Virginia has numerous reservoirs and dams that serve as sources of drinking water, recreation, and hydroelectric power generation. Some of the major reservoirs in the state include Smith Mountain Lake, Lake Anna, and Lake Gaston. These reservoirs are fed by various streams, rivers, and creeks, including the Roanoke River, the North Anna River, and the Roanoke Rapids. The hydrology of the area is influenced by the Appalachian Mountains, which receive significant snowfall during the winter months. This snowpack contributes to streamflow during the spring and summer months, which in turn helps to fill the reservoirs. However, drought conditions can also impact the water levels in these reservoirs, as was seen in the early 2000s when severe drought led to record low water levels in many of Virginia's reservoirs. Seasonal trends in Virginia's reservoirs are largely dependent on precipitation patterns. During the wetter months, water levels in the reservoirs tend to rise, while during the drier months, water levels may drop. Overall, Virginia's reservoirs play a crucial role in the state's water supply and are closely monitored to ensure adequate water resources for the surrounding communities.

Virginia has numerous reservoirs and dams that serve as sources of drinking water, recreation, and hydroelectric power generation. Some of the major reservoirs in the state include Smith Mountain Lake, Lake Anna, and Lake Gaston. These reservoirs are fed by various streams, rivers, and creeks, including the Roanoke River, the North Anna River, and the Roanoke Rapids.

The hydrology of the area is influenced by the Appalachian Mountains, which receive significant snowfall during the winter months. This snowpack contributes to streamflow during the spring and summer months, which in turn helps to fill the reservoirs. However, drought conditions can also impact the water levels in these reservoirs, as was seen in the early 2000s when severe drought led to record low water levels in many of Virginia's reservoirs.

Seasonal trends in Virginia's reservoirs are largely dependent on precipitation patterns. During the wetter months, water levels in the reservoirs tend to rise, while during the drier months, water levels may drop. Overall, Virginia's reservoirs play a crucial role in the state's water supply and are closely monitored to ensure adequate water resources for the surrounding communities.