Rainbow Forest Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Rainbow Forest Dam, located in Botetourt, Virginia, is a private earth dam built for recreational purposes along Laymantown Creek.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 32.2 feet and stretching 425 feet in length, this dam provides a storage capacity of 155 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 122.5 acre-feet. Despite its age not being specified, the dam reflects a satisfactory condition as assessed in January 2017.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Rainbow Forest Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its location and design. However, regular inspections and enforcement measures are in place to ensure the safety and functionality of the structure. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in April 2012, indicating a commitment to preparedness in case of any unforeseen events.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Rainbow Forest Dam serves as a notable feature in the landscape, offering recreational opportunities while also highlighting the importance of proper dam maintenance and regulation. With its significant storage capacity and strategic location, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and protecting downstream areas from potential flooding risks.

Dam Length

425

Dam Height

32.2

River Or Stream

Laymantown Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.8

Hydraulic Height

32.2

Drainage Area

2.86

Nid Storage

155

Structural Height

32.2

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

32
       
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.