James Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
James Dam, also known as James Pond Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Spotsylvania, Virginia, along the TR-NORTH ANNA RIVER.
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Summary
The dam, with a height of 22.5 feet and a length of 500 feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes. It has a storage capacity of 165 acre-feet and covers an area of 11 acres. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Although the hazard potential of James Dam is currently classified as "Undetermined" and its condition is "Not Rated" as of the last inspection in 2006, the dam continues to provide recreational opportunities for the local community. It is situated in close proximity to Abigail Davis Spanberger's congressional district and falls under the jurisdiction of the Baltimore District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and risk management measures are yet to be determined, suggesting a need for further evaluation and preparedness in case of emergencies.
As a vital part of the water resource infrastructure in Virginia, James Dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational benefits while also serving as a potential area for future risk assessment and management. With its picturesque location and connection to the North Anna River, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of maintaining and monitoring such structures to ensure the safety and well-being of surrounding communities and the environment.
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
22.5 |
River Or Stream |
TR-NORTH ANNA RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Hydraulic Height |
22.5 |
Nid Storage |
165 |
Structural Height |
22.5 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
James Dam