Howard Farm Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Howard Farm Dam in Charles City, Virginia, is a privately owned structure that serves as a key water resource in the area.


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Summary

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this dam stands at a height of 13 feet and stretches 850 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 158.39 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 53.48 acre-feet and a surface area of 19.1 acres, Howard Farm Dam plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in the region.

Although the hazard potential of the dam is currently classified as undetermined and its condition assessment is not rated, it is regularly inspected by the state regulatory agency to ensure its safety and integrity. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures are yet to be determined. With its location in a picturesque setting and its significant role in water resource management, Howard Farm Dam is a site of interest for water resource and climate enthusiasts, offering opportunities for further exploration and research in the field.

In the midst of changing climate patterns and increasing water scarcity concerns, the significance of structures like Howard Farm Dam cannot be overstated. As a vital component of the region's water resource infrastructure, this dam serves as a focal point for discussions on sustainable water management practices and climate resilience strategies. With its potential to mitigate flood risks, provide water storage, and support ecosystem health, Howard Farm Dam stands as a symbol of the ongoing efforts to balance human needs with environmental conservation in the face of a changing climate.

Dam Length

850

Dam Height

13

Surface Area

19.1

Hydraulic Height

13

Nid Storage

158.39

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

13
       
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.