Lonesome Gulch Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lonesome Gulch Dam, located in Caroline, Virginia, is a Federal-owned structure on Cattlet Creek with a primary purpose classified as "Other." This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet.


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Summary

The dam's hazard potential is currently labeled as "Undetermined," with a condition assessment of "Not Rated."

Despite lacking certain data such as the year of completion and details on the spillway, Lonesome Gulch Dam remains an intriguing site for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's location within the Baltimore District of the US Army Corps of Engineers adds to its significance, with Congressman Robert J. Wittman representing the area. The dam's contribution to the local ecosystem and water management in the region is vital, although its inspection frequency and emergency preparedness status are currently unspecified.

With its captivating name and unique features, Lonesome Gulch Dam serves as a focal point for further exploration and research in the realm of water resource management. As an Earth-type dam with a modest structural height, this Federal-owned structure presents opportunities for studying the intersection of human infrastructure with natural water systems. While some aspects of the dam's history and safety protocols remain unclear, its role in the local landscape of Caroline, Virginia, invites a closer look at the interplay between water resources, climate dynamics, and engineering practices.

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

CATTLET CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

72

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

12
       
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.