South River Dam #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

South River Dam #3, also known as Poor Creek or Cold Springs Dam, is a state-owned structure located in Augusta, Virginia.


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Summary

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this earth dam stands at a height of 47 feet and spans 665 feet in length. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, with a storage capacity of 1450 acre-feet and a drainage area of 3.1 square miles.

Despite its significant hazard potential, South River Dam #3 is in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in April 2017. The dam has a normal storage capacity of 80 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 13 acres. While the dam does not have a spillway, it is equipped with emergency action plans to ensure public safety in times of crisis. With its location on Poor Creek and close proximity to the Norfolk District, South River Dam #3 plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating flood risks in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find South River Dam #3 to be a vital infrastructure asset in Augusta, Virginia. With its state regulation, inspection, and enforcement, the dam serves as a key component in flood risk reduction efforts in the area. Understanding the design and purpose of this earth dam can provide valuable insights into water management strategies and the importance of maintaining safe and efficient water infrastructure for the community's well-being.

Dam Length

665

Dam Height

47

River Or Stream

POOR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

47

Drainage Area

3.1

Nid Storage

1450

Structural Height

47

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

47
       
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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.