Saunders Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Perry Morgan Dam Craghead Dam
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Saunders Pond Dam, located in Bedford, Virginia, serves as a crucial water supply infrastructure managed by the local government.
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Summary
With a height of 18 feet and a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet, this earth dam plays a significant role in ensuring a stable water supply for the region. The dam also offers recreational opportunities, making it a valuable asset for both water resource management and community engagement.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Saunders Pond Dam is regulated and inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. The dam has been assessed to be in fair condition, with its last inspection conducted in October 2012. While the hazard potential is currently labeled as undetermined, ongoing risk management measures are likely in place to mitigate any potential threats. As an essential component of the local water supply network, Saunders Pond Dam continues to play a vital role in supporting the region's water needs and promoting recreational activities along Mattox Creek.
Despite its modest size, Saunders Pond Dam stands as a key piece of infrastructure in the Norfolk District's water management system. With a primary purpose of water supply and additional benefits for recreation, this earth dam underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, monitoring and maintaining the condition of dams like Saunders Pond Dam is crucial for ensuring the resilience of our water infrastructure and the long-term sustainability of our communities amidst evolving environmental challenges.
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
MATTOX CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
18 |
Nid Storage |
53 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Goose Creek Near Huddleston
|
54cfs |
Blackwater River Near Rocky Mount
|
56cfs |
Pigg River Near Sandy Level
|
112cfs |
Back Creek Near Dundee
|
18cfs |
Roanoke River At Niagara
|
173cfs |
Big Otter River Near Evington
|
95cfs |
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.
Saunders Pond Dam
Oak Hollow Road Bedford County