Willis River Dam #9 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Buckingham County Dam #27 Ca Ira Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Buckingham, Virginia, Willis River Dam #9, also known as Spencer Dam, is a local government-owned structure designed for flood risk reduction along Payne Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Standing at a height of 36.3 feet and a length of 340 feet, this earth dam provides a maximum storage capacity of 590 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 55 acre-feet. The dam, situated within the Norfolk District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, has a hazard potential rated as high and a fair condition assessment as of October 2019.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Willis River Dam #9 plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risk in the area. Despite its high hazard potential, the structure meets state regulatory standards for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With a strategic location and well-maintained condition, the dam stands as a vital component of the local water resource infrastructure, safeguarding the surrounding community from potential flood events by effectively controlling water flow along Payne Creek.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Willis River Dam #9 to be a fascinating engineering feat, showcasing the intersection of environmental conservation and infrastructure development. With its significant storage capacity and flood risk reduction purpose, the dam serves as a testament to effective water management practices in the region. As a critical piece of the state's regulatory framework, this earth dam stands as a symbol of resilience and preparedness in the face of potential natural disasters, highlighting the importance of sustainable water resource management in the context of changing climate conditions.
Dam Length |
340 |
Dam Height |
36.3 |
River Or Stream |
PAYNE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Hydraulic Height |
36.3 |
Drainage Area |
2.5 |
Nid Storage |
590 |
Structural Height |
36.3 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
36 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Appomattox River At Farmville
|
132cfs |
Slate River Near Arvonia
|
68cfs |
Holiday Creek Near Andersonville
|
2cfs |
Buffalo Creek Near Hampden Sydney
|
26cfs |
James River At Cartersville
|
1950cfs |
James River At Scottsville
|
1470cfs |
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 #9
Cumberland State Forest
Bear Creek Lake State Park
Red Cedar Natural Area
Rock Quarry Natural Area