Kyanite Mine Waste Dam #1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Willis Mt. Tailings Pond Gieseke Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Kyanite Mine Waste Dam #1, located in Buckingham, Virginia, is a private-owned earth dam with a height of 70 feet, serving a primary purpose of "Other".
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Summary
The dam is situated on Whispering Creek and falls under the jurisdiction of the Norfolk District. With a storage capacity of 1545 acre-feet, the dam's hazard potential is currently labeled as "Undetermined" and its condition assessment is "Not Rated".
Despite being not regulated or inspected by the state, Kyanite Mine Waste Dam #1 presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's location in a picturesque setting, coupled with its unique design and purpose, raises questions about potential environmental impacts and the need for ongoing monitoring and assessment. With the dam's emergency action plan status unclear and risk assessment information unavailable, there are opportunities for further research and analysis to better understand the implications of this dam on the surrounding ecosystem and community.
Given the lack of recent data on this dam's condition and emergency preparedness, there is a need for increased transparency and accountability in its management. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resource management, understanding the potential risks associated with structures like Kyanite Mine Waste Dam #1 is crucial for ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water infrastructure. With further investigation and attention to detail, we can gain valuable insights into how to mitigate potential hazards and protect our precious water resources for future generations.
Dam Height |
70 |
River Or Stream |
WHISPERING CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
70 |
Nid Storage |
1545 |
Structural Height |
70 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
70 |
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 Bent Creek
|
1290cfs |
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.
Kyanite Mine Waste Dam #1
Headwaters Natural Area
Cumberland State Forest
Chestnut Ridge Natural Area
Holiday Creek Natural Area
Upland Hardwood Natural Area