Terrell Brothers Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Terrell Brothers Dam, located in Caroline, Virginia, is a private-owned structure that serves as a vital resource for recreation enthusiasts in the area.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 20 feet with a length of 496 feet, this earth-type dam holds a storage capacity of 116 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 9.2 acres. Situated on a tributary of the Motto River, the dam offers opportunities for various water activities, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
While the dam's hazard potential is currently classified as "Undetermined" and its condition remains unassessed, it is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia. The dam has not been rated for its condition assessment and lacks emergency action preparedness measures. Despite these gaps, the structure continues to provide valuable recreational opportunities for the community, with its picturesque setting offering a haven for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy the outdoors.
As a significant part of Virginia's water infrastructure, Terrell Brothers Dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational benefits for the surrounding area. With its strategic location and ample storage capacity, the dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in balancing environmental conservation with recreational activities. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to appreciate and utilize this structure, there is a continued need for ongoing assessment and management to ensure its safety and longevity for future generations to enjoy.
Dam Length |
496 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
trib. Motto River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
116 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Terrell Brothers Dam