Watermarks Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wissel Roy Dam Mcdaniel Dan
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Watermarks Dam in Albemarle, Virginia, is a private-owned structure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
Situated on a tributary of the James River, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 35 feet, providing a storage capacity of 138 acre-feet and a surface area of 10 acres. While its primary purpose is for recreation, the dam's hazard potential and condition assessment remain undetermined, with no official rating to date.
Despite lacking a specified completion year or recent inspection details, Watermarks Dam continues to serve as a recreational hub in the region. With its serene surroundings and potential for outdoor activities, the dam offers a tranquil escape for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore. As a notable feature in the Norfolk District, the dam's potential risk management measures and emergency preparedness are yet to be fully assessed, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and evaluation to ensure safety and resilience.
Whether for leisurely pursuits or environmental monitoring, Watermarks Dam presents a picturesque setting for individuals interested in water resources and climate dynamics. As stakeholders and authorities work towards enhancing its safety and regulatory compliance, the dam remains a significant landmark in the Albemarle County landscape, inviting visitors to appreciate the intersection of human ingenuity and nature's forces in this captivating water resource structure.
Dam Height |
35 |
River Or Stream |
trib. James Rver |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
35 |
Nid Storage |
138 |
Structural Height |
35 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
35 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James River At Scottsville
|
1470cfs |
Hardware River Bl Briery Run Nr Scottsville
|
52cfs |
Slate River Near Arvonia
|
68cfs |
Rivanna River At Palmyra
|
175cfs |
Rockfish River Near Greenfield
|
33cfs |
James River At Bent Creek
|
1290cfs |
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.
Watermarks Dam