Otter River Raw Water Terminal Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
The Otter River Raw Water Terminal Reservoir Dam, located in Altavista, Virginia, is a crucial structure owned by the local government for water supply purposes.
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Summary
This earth dam, with a height of 42 feet and a length of 600 feet, plays a significant role in storing and regulating water from an unnamed tributary to the Big Otter River. With a storage capacity of 59 acre-feet and a surface area of 3.3 acres, the dam is designed to ensure a steady water supply to the surrounding area.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, the Otter River Raw Water Terminal Reservoir Dam has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed as satisfactory in condition. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with regular inspections conducted to ensure its safety and functionality. Although it poses a moderate risk, the dam is equipped with emergency action plans and meets regulatory guidelines to mitigate any potential threats and ensure the safety of the community and environment in the event of an emergency.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find the Otter River Raw Water Terminal Reservoir Dam an intriguing structure in the water management infrastructure of Virginia. With its essential role in providing a reliable water supply and its adherence to state regulations and inspection protocols, this dam stands as a vital component in ensuring water security and resilience in the region.
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
42 |
River Or Stream |
Unnamed tributary to Big Otter River - VAHU6 RU57 Big Otter River - Johnson Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3.3 |
Drainage Area |
0.05 |
Nid Storage |
59 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
42 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Otter River Near Evington
|
101cfs |
Roanoke River At Altavista
|
618cfs |
Big Otter River Near Bedford
|
53cfs |
Goose Creek Near Huddleston
|
56cfs |
Falling River Near Naruna
|
57cfs |
James River At Holcomb Rock
|
948cfs |
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.
Otter River Raw Water Terminal Reservoir Dam