Thomas Raber Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Thomas Raber Dam, located in Virginia on Webb Mill Creek, is a private earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 28.5 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 102.03 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.4 acres. While the dam's hazard potential is currently labeled as undetermined, it is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, ensuring that state inspection, permitting, and enforcement are in place.

Despite lacking a designated year of completion or information on modifications, Thomas Raber Dam remains a significant part of the water resource infrastructure in Appomattox, Virginia. The dam's condition assessment is currently listed as "not rated," and it has not been assigned an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) or undergone risk management measures. With Denver Riggleman (R) as the congressional representative for the area, the dam serves as a key site for water enthusiasts and climate advocates to explore and appreciate the intersection of human-made structures and natural resources.

Overall, Thomas Raber Dam presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the importance of private ownership and state regulation in maintaining dam safety and functionality. As the dam continues to provide recreational opportunities in the region, further assessments and risk management measures may be necessary to ensure its long-term resilience and sustainability in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Dam Height

28.5

River Or Stream

Webb Mill Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.4

Hydraulic Height

28.5

Nid Storage

102.03

Structural Height

28.5

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

29
       
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.