Crab Orchard Creek Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Crab Orchard Creek Dam, located in Bland, Virginia, is a private dam that serves primarily for recreational purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 50.4 feet and a storage capacity of 550 acre-feet, this earth dam stands as a vital structure in the region. The dam overlooks the Crab Orchard Creek, providing a serene backdrop for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Crab Orchard Creek Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and compliance with standards. Despite being deemed as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated. However, emergency action plans have been prepared, with the last revision done in August 2014, showcasing the proactive approach taken to mitigate any risks associated with the dam.

As part of the Wilmington District, the Crab Orchard Creek Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. With its picturesque surroundings and recreational value, this dam serves as both a functional structure and a natural attraction for visitors to enjoy.

Dam Length

510

Dam Height

50.4

River Or Stream

CRAB ORCHARD CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17.5

Hydraulic Height

50.4

Drainage Area

4.98

Nid Storage

550

Structural Height

50.4

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

50
       
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.