Wrights Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Wrights Dam, located in Virginia along Buck Creek, stands as a vital water resource for the community.
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Summary
This earth dam, measuring 31 feet in height and 340 feet in length, serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a storage capacity of 159 acre-feet and a surface area of 10 acres, the dam provides essential water storage and recreational opportunities for the surrounding area.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Wrights Dam is state-regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam has not been rated for its current condition. The last inspection took place in August 1994, with an emergency action plan last revised in July 2012. While the dam remains in good standing, continual monitoring and maintenance are essential to uphold its integrity and safety for the community.
With its scenic location and recreational significance, Wrights Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Appomattox, Virginia. As a key structure along Buck Creek, the dam serves as a reliable water source for various activities while also prioritizing safety measures and regulatory compliance. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor and support the ongoing maintenance and management of Wrights Dam to ensure its long-term sustainability and benefit for future generations.
Dam Length |
340 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
BUCK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
31 |
Drainage Area |
0.01 |
Nid Storage |
159 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
31 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James River At Bent Creek
|
1290cfs |
Holiday Creek Near Andersonville
|
2cfs |
Falling River Near Naruna
|
59cfs |
Cub Creek At Phenix
|
44cfs |
James River At Holcomb Rock
|
1010cfs |
Buffalo Creek Near Hampden Sydney
|
26cfs |
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.
Wrights Dam
Headwaters To Farmville