Peaks Of Otter Dam 1-K Mi.85.5 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Peaks of Otter Dam 1-K is a federal-owned structure located at Mile 85.5 along the Little Stoney Creek in Bedford, Virginia.


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Summary

Constructed in 1964 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves the primary purpose of creating a Fish and Wildlife Pond for the National Park Service. With a height of 35 feet and a hydraulic height of 28 feet, the dam holds a storage capacity of 240 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 24 acres. Despite being unregulated by the state, the dam has a high hazard potential and is classified as having a moderate risk level.

Managed by the National Park Service, Peaks of Otter Dam 1-K is primarily funded and regulated by federal agencies. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 77 feet and no outlet gates. While not currently assessed for its condition, the dam undergoes inspections by the Bureau of Reclamation and has an Emergency Action Plan in place. With Congressman Ben Cline representing the area, the dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities and supporting wildlife in the region.

Year Completed

1964

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

LITTLE STONEY CREEK

Surface Area

24

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

240

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

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.