Willis River Dam #5f Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Buckingham, Virginia, Willis River Dam #5f, also known as Kyanite, is managed by the local government and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 43.2 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Whispering Creek. With a storage capacity of 1178 acre-feet and a surface area of 12.6 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Despite its fair condition assessment as of October 2019, Willis River Dam #5f has a high hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. With a history of no modifications or emergency action plans in place, there is a need for proactive risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the role of dams like Willis River Dam #5f in mitigating flood risks becomes increasingly significant.
As enthusiasts of water resources and climate change, it is essential to monitor the status of dams like Willis River Dam #5f to understand their impact on local ecosystems and communities. By staying informed about inspection dates, hazard potential, and risk management measures, we can contribute to the sustainable management of water resources in Virginia and beyond. Willis River Dam #5f stands as a testament to the intricate balance between infrastructure development, flood risk reduction, and environmental conservation in the face of a changing climate.
Dam Length |
595 |
Dam Height |
43.2 |
River Or Stream |
TR-WHISPERING CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
43.2 |
Drainage Area |
5.4 |
Nid Storage |
1178 |
Structural Height |
43.2 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
43 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Holiday Creek Near Andersonville
|
2cfs |
Appomattox River At Farmville
|
132cfs |
Slate River Near Arvonia
|
68cfs |
Buffalo Creek Near Hampden Sydney
|
26cfs |
James River At Scottsville
|
1470cfs |
James River At Bent Creek
|
1290cfs |
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 #5f
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