Willis River Dam #4 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kyanite Dam #3 Kyanite East Ridge Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Willis River Dam #4, also known as Seaman, is a local government-owned structure located in Buckingham, Virginia.
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Summary
This earth-type dam stands at a height of 43.6 feet and is primarily used for flood risk reduction along Cattail Creek. With a storage capacity of 1102 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area, covering a drainage area of 3.81 square miles. Despite its fair condition assessment as of October 2019, the dam's hazard potential is considered high, underscoring the importance of regular inspections and maintenance.
The dam, managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, is regulated by the state of Virginia and falls under the jurisdiction of the Norfolk District. While it lacks certain key details such as its year of completion and spillway type, Willis River Dam #4 remains a vital piece of infrastructure ensuring the safety of the surrounding community from flooding events. Its strategic location and design contribute to its effectiveness in mitigating flood risks and highlights the ongoing efforts to safeguard water resources amidst changing climate conditions.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the significance of Willis River Dam #4 lies in its contribution to flood risk reduction and water management in Buckingham, Virginia. With its storage capacity, structural height, and location along Cattail Creek, the dam serves as a critical structure in maintaining the safety and resilience of the local area. As the dam continues to be monitored and inspected regularly, its role in protecting against potential hazards underscores the intersection of water resource management and climate adaptation in ensuring the sustainability and safety of communities in the face of environmental challenges.
Dam Length |
517 |
Dam Height |
43.6 |
River Or Stream |
CATTAIL CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
15.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
43.6 |
Drainage Area |
3.81 |
Nid Storage |
1102 |
Structural Height |
43.6 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
44 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Appomattox River At Farmville
|
132cfs |
Holiday Creek Near Andersonville
|
2cfs |
Buffalo Creek Near Hampden Sydney
|
26cfs |
Slate River Near Arvonia
|
68cfs |
James River At Bent Creek
|
1290cfs |
James River At Cartersville
|
1950cfs |
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.
Willis River Dam #4