South River Dam #19 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

South River Dam #19, also known as Waynesboro Nursery, is a vital infrastructure owned by the local government in Augusta, Virginia.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 35 feet and stretches 815 feet in length, serving primarily for flood risk reduction along the TR-South River. With a NID storage capacity of 1034 acre-feet and a drainage area of 3.04 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and protecting the surrounding communities from potential flooding events.

Despite its importance, South River Dam #19 has been classified with a high hazard potential and rated in poor condition, as per the latest assessment conducted in March 2021. The dam's inspection frequency is set at once per year, emphasizing the need for regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and operational effectiveness. Additionally, the dam lacks an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and may benefit from further risk assessment and management measures to enhance its resilience and preparedness for potential emergencies.

Located within the Norfolk District, the dam falls under the regulatory authority of the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia. With its strategic position and critical role in flood control, South River Dam #19 serves as a valuable asset in safeguarding the local environment and communities against water-related risks, highlighting the importance of ongoing maintenance and attention to its operational conditions. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam offers a compelling case study in the intersection of infrastructure management, environmental protection, and disaster risk reduction in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Dam Length

815

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

TR-SOUTH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

3.04

Nid Storage

1034

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

35
       
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.