Willis River Dam #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Buckingham, Virginia, Willis River Dam #2, also known as Booker Dam, was completed in 1975 for the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Tongue Quarter Creek.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 46.3 feet, with a length of 660 feet and a storage capacity of 2,730 acre-feet. Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, the dam is regularly inspected, regulated, and enforced by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation to ensure public safety and compliance with state regulations.

With a drainage area of 9 square miles, Willis River Dam #2 plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region, providing flood protection for the surrounding communities. The dam's normal storage capacity of 238 acre-feet helps to mitigate potential flood risks and protect downstream properties and infrastructure. Despite its age, the dam's structure remains sound and effective in its flood risk reduction function, showcasing the importance of proactive dam management and maintenance in the face of changing climate conditions and increasing water resource challenges.

As a key asset in flood risk management, Willis River Dam #2 serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts of local governments and regulatory agencies to safeguard communities and promote sustainable water resource practices. With a focus on safety, regulation, and risk assessment, this dam exemplifies the critical role that infrastructure plays in adapting to climate-related challenges and ensuring the resilience of water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1975

Dam Length

660

Dam Height

46.3

River Or Stream

TR-TONGUE QUARTER CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

36

Hydraulic Height

46.3

Drainage Area

9

Nid Storage

2730

Structural Height

46.3

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

46
       
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.