Collins Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kalita Dam Lower Tanyard Swamp Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Collins Dam, located in Caroline, Virginia, is a private dam primarily used for recreation on Doctors Creek.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 15 feet, it offers a storage capacity of 316 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 65 acres. While the dam's hazard potential is currently undetermined and its condition has not been rated, it is regulated and inspected by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.
The dam, constructed with an earth type design, serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife watching. Despite lacking a designated completion year and detailed specifications on its spillway type and discharge capacity, Collins Dam remains a key feature in the local landscape, providing both residents and visitors with opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of Doctors Creek. With its serene surroundings and potential for various outdoor activities, the dam stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of water resources and recreational pursuits in the region.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and ecosystems, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like Collins Dam become increasingly crucial. While its emergency action plan status and risk assessment details are currently unspecified, ongoing inspections and regulatory oversight ensure that the dam remains a safe and sustainable feature for the community. As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intersection of recreation and conservation, Collins Dam represents a valuable asset in balancing the preservation of natural habitats with the enjoyment of outdoor activities in Caroline, Virginia.
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
DOCTORS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
65 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
316 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
15 |
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.
Collins Dam