Saunders Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Amelia Dam Amelia County Dam # 10
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Saunders Dam, also known as Saunders Pond Dam, is a state-owned structure located in Farmville, Virginia.
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Summary
This earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes and also supports irrigation in the area. With a height of 23 feet and a length of 400 feet, Saunders Dam has a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 37.2 acre-feet. The dam is situated on an unnamed tributary of the Appomattox River, within the Norfolk District.
Despite its low hazard potential, Saunders Dam is in poor condition according to its last assessment in March 2020. The Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia oversees the regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement of this dam. The dam's poor condition raises concerns about its ability to withstand potential emergencies or extreme weather events, highlighting the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring to ensure its safety and functionality. As a key water resource in the area, Saunders Dam plays a crucial role in supporting the local community's recreational and irrigation needs, making its upkeep a priority for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
Unnamed tributary Appomattox River - VAHU6 JA23 Appomattox River - Skinquarter Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.9 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
75 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Appomattox River At Mattoax
|
309cfs |
Fine Creek At Fine Creek Mills
|
3cfs |
Deep Creek Near Mannboro
|
96cfs |
James River At Cartersville
|
2090cfs |
James River And Kanawha Canal Near Richmond
|
131cfs |
James River Near Richmond
|
1810cfs |
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.
Saunders Dam