Amherst County Dam # 9 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Amherst County Dam # 9, located in Virginia along Higginbotham Creek, serves as a recreational spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 21 feet with a length of 525 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 138.26 acre-feet, providing a serene surface area of 10.54 acres for outdoor activities. While the dam's hazard potential is currently undetermined and its condition remains unrated, it is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia.

With a primary purpose of recreation, Amherst County Dam # 9 caters to outdoor enthusiasts seeking a tranquil setting for various water activities. The dam's structural design, primarily earth-based, showcases its commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable environment for visitors. While specific completion and modification dates are not available, the dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures remain undisclosed, requiring further assessment to ensure public safety and environmental protection. As a notable structure in the Norfolk District, Amherst County Dam # 9 stands as a testament to Virginia's dedication to water resource management and recreational opportunities in the region.

Dam Length

525

Dam Height

21

River Or Stream

Higginbotham Creek

Surface Area

10.54

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

138.26

Structural Height

21

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

21
       
Seasonal Comparison

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.