Ames Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Paige Road Dam Poplar Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Ames Dam, located in Caroline, Virginia, serves primarily for irrigation purposes and stands as a vital structure within the area.
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Summary
The dam, constructed with earth materials, boasts a height of 22 feet and a length of 300 feet, providing a storage capacity of 75 acre-feet. Situated along a tributary of Poplar Creek, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia to ensure its safe operation and compliance with state guidelines.
Despite being labeled as "Undetermined" in terms of hazard potential and "Not Rated" in condition assessment, Ames Dam remains an essential component for water resource management in the region. While details on the completion year, condition assessment date, and emergency action plan readiness are not provided, the dam's presence signifies the crucial role it plays in supporting agricultural activities and water supply needs in the area. With the inspection frequency set at once per year, efforts are made to uphold the dam's integrity and functionality.
As a key irrigation infrastructure within the Baltimore District, Ames Dam contributes to the overall water management efforts in Virginia. Although specific information regarding design, construction, and modifications is not outlined, the dam's presence underscores the significance of sustainable water resource utilization and climate resilience. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of dams like Ames Dam is crucial in safeguarding water availability and promoting environmental stewardship in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
22 |
River Or Stream |
trib. Poplar Creek |
Hydraulic Height |
22 |
Nid Storage |
75 |
Structural Height |
22 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
22 |
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.
Ames Dam