Little River Reservoir Near Radford Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Little River Reservoir is a popular water source in Radford, Virginia.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The history of the reservoir dates back to 1965 when it was created to provide water to the residents of Radford. It is a man-made reservoir with a watershed of 7,500 acres. The reservoir has a maximum depth of 117 feet and covers an area of 435 acres. The hydrology of Little River Reservoir is largely influenced by the surrounding mountains and receives water from the Little River and its tributaries. The surface flow is primarily supplied by the Little River, while snowpack provides a significant contribution during the winter months. The reservoir supports recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and camping. However, agricultural use is prohibited due to the potential impact on the water quality.

Reservoir Details

Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Navd 1988, Ft 24hr Change -0.02%
Percent of Normal 100%
Minimum 1,770.02 ft
2000-07-18
Maximum 1,775.12 ft
2003-03-21
Average 1,772 ft
Dam_Height 32
Hydraulic_Height 44
Drainage_Area 351
Year_Completed 1934
Nid_Storage 1600
Structural_Height 52
Primary_Dam_Type Buttress
Foundations Rock
Surface_Area 350
Hazard_Potential High
Outlet_Gates Tainter (radial) - 8
River_Or_Stream Little River
Dam_Length 293
Nid_Height 52
       
Seasonal Comparison
Reservoir Storage, Acre-Ft Levels
Lake Or Reservoir Water Surface Elevation Above Navd 1988, Ft Levels

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.