Stokes Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Stokes Dam, located in Botetourt, Virginia, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


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Summary

With a height of 39 feet and a length of 320 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 47.27 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 35.5 acre-feet. Situated within the Norfolk District, the dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, with inspection, permitting, and enforcement processes in place to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite being classified as having an undetermined hazard potential and not yet rated for condition assessment, Stokes Dam remains a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's tranquil surroundings and recreational opportunities attract visitors seeking outdoor adventures and scenic views. While further assessments and emergency preparedness measures may be necessary, the dam's role in providing water storage and recreational activities underscores its importance within the community.

With its picturesque location and significant storage capacity, Stokes Dam represents a valuable resource for both residents and visitors in Botetourt, Virginia. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Stokes Dam will be crucial in ensuring their continued functionality and safety. As stakeholders work together to address potential risks and implement risk management measures, Stokes Dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water management, recreation, and environmental stewardship in the region.

Dam Length

320

Dam Height

39

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.5

Hydraulic Height

39

Nid Storage

47.27

Structural Height

39

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

39
       
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.