Coburn Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Coburn Dam, located in Caroline, Virginia, is a private-owned structure on TR-POLECAT CREEK primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

With a height of 17 feet and a length of 350 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 111 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 64 acre-feet. The dam's hazard potential is currently labeled as 'Undetermined', and its condition assessment is 'Not Rated', indicating that further evaluation may be necessary to determine its safety and maintenance needs.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Coburn Dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by state agencies. The dam's emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk assessment measures are currently not reported, suggesting a potential area for improvement in enhancing safety protocols and preparedness. With a focus on recreation, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for water resource management and climate enthusiasts to explore and enjoy in the area.

Overall, Coburn Dam presents an opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to engage with a significant earth dam structure in Virginia. With its location on TR-POLECAT CREEK and its storage capacity of 111 acre-feet, the dam offers a valuable resource for recreational activities while raising important considerations for safety and emergency preparedness. As state agencies oversee its regulation and inspection, ongoing monitoring and evaluation will be crucial in ensuring the dam's continued functionality and safety for the surrounding community and environment.

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

TR-POLECAT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

17

Drainage Area

0.33

Nid Storage

111

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

17
       
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.