Willis River Dam #1a Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Willis River Dam #1a, also known as Big Chesapeake, is a crucial structure located in Buckingham, Virginia, designed for flood risk reduction along the Willis River.


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Summary

Constructed in 1975, this earth dam stands at a height of 41.7 feet and has a storage capacity of 3,183 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 169 acre-feet, this dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in the area.

Owned by the local government and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Willis River Dam #1a is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition as of the last assessment in July 2019. Its location in the Norfolk District and its importance for flood risk reduction make it a crucial asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management of water infrastructure.

With a drainage area of 9.77 square miles and a surface area of 28 acres, Willis River Dam #1a serves as a vital component in the water management system of Buckingham, Virginia. Its impact on the surrounding environment and its role in flood prevention make it a noteworthy structure for those interested in the intersection of water resources and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

390

Dam Height

41.7

River Or Stream

WILLIS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

28

Hydraulic Height

41.7

Drainage Area

9.77

Nid Storage

3183

Structural Height

41.7

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

42
       
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.