Lake Shannon Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Lake Shannon Dam, also known as Caroline Pines Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Caroline County, Virginia.


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Summary

The dam, standing at a height of 26 feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes and holds a storage capacity of 140 acre-feet. With a surface area of 9.2 acres and a drainage area of 0.92 square miles, the dam is situated along the TRIB-NORTH ANNA river and is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia.

Despite its low hazard potential, Lake Shannon Dam has not been rated for its current condition as the last inspection took place in April 2009. The dam has not undergone any significant modifications since its completion, and its emergency action plan status is not provided. The structure's primary purpose of recreation highlights its importance in providing water resources for leisure activities in the local community.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in Virginia may find interest in the unique characteristics of Lake Shannon Dam, such as its earth-type construction and historical significance in the region. As a privately owned dam with state regulation and inspection, this structure serves as a key component in the water management infrastructure of the area, contributing to both recreational enjoyment and the conservation of natural resources.

Dam Length

335

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TRIB-NORTH ANNA

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.2

Hydraulic Height

26

Drainage Area

0.92

Nid Storage

140

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

26
       
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.