Lower Wallace Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Upper Wallace Dam South River Dam #6
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lower Wallace Dam, located in Augusta County, Virginia, is a privately owned earth dam on Poor Creek with a primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 23 feet and a length of 450 feet, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 64 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 160 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment as of July 2012, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Situated in a picturesque natural setting, Lower Wallace Dam provides opportunities for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. The dam's design and construction are in accordance with state permitting and inspection requirements, with the last inspection conducted in July 2012. Although the dam has not undergone any modifications in recent years, its emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are currently not specified, indicating a potential area for improvement in ensuring the safety and preparedness of the dam in case of emergencies.
As a key feature on Poor Creek, Lower Wallace Dam serves as a vital resource for both local residents and visitors, offering a tranquil escape and a hub for outdoor enthusiasts. With its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition, the dam presents a safe and enjoyable environment for recreational activities. However, ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts, including the development of an updated EAP and risk assessment, could further enhance the safety and resilience of this important water resource in the face of changing climate conditions.
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
POOR CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Drainage Area |
3.8 |
Nid Storage |
160 |
Structural Height |
23 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Lower Wallace Dam
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