Willis River Dam #6a Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Willis River Dam #6a, also known as Elcan, is a local government-owned structure located on the Little Willis River in Buckingham, Virginia.


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Summary

Built for the primary purpose of flood risk reduction, this earth dam stands at a height of 33.1 feet and spans 496 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 1036 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 76 feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and mitigating flood hazards in the area.

Despite its high hazard potential, Willis River Dam #6a is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of October 2019. The Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia regulates this dam, ensuring that it undergoes regular inspections and maintenance. With a drainage area of 2.9 square miles, this dam serves as a vital infrastructure for protecting the surrounding community from potential flood events.

As an essential flood risk reduction structure in the region, Willis River Dam #6a stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience. Its strategic location on the Little Willis River, combined with its significant storage capacity, highlights the critical role that dams play in safeguarding communities from the impacts of extreme weather events. With ongoing regulatory oversight and maintenance efforts, this dam continues to serve as a crucial asset in protecting lives and property from the threat of flooding in Buckingham, Virginia.

Dam Length

496

Dam Height

33.1

River Or Stream

LITTLE WILLIS RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

33.1

Drainage Area

2.9

Nid Storage

1036

Structural Height

33.1

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

33
       
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.