Roanoke Creek Dam # 72a Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Roanoke Creek Dam # 72a, also known as Drakes Lake, is a local government-owned structure located in Charlotte County, Virginia.
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Summary
The dam plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction, with a primary purpose of mitigating potential threats from rising waters in the area. Standing at a height of 43.9 feet and stretching 614 feet in length, the earth dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 5535 acre-feet, serving a drainage area of 15.5 square miles along Twittys Creek.
Despite its satisfactory condition assessment, Roanoke Creek Dam # 72a poses a high hazard potential and is subject to regular state inspection, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its continued safety and functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and is designed to manage maximum discharges effectively. With a risk assessment rating of moderate (3), the structure is deemed to have a moderate level of risk associated with its operations, necessitating ongoing risk management measures to maintain its integrity and safeguard the surrounding community.
Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will find Roanoke Creek Dam # 72a to be an essential piece of infrastructure in the region, playing a critical role in flood prevention and water management. The dam's strategic location in Drakes Branch, Virginia, along with its impressive storage capacity and drainage area coverage, highlights its significance in mitigating flood risks and protecting downstream communities. As a state-regulated and monitored structure with a high hazard potential, Roanoke Creek Dam # 72a stands as a testament to the importance of proactive dam safety measures in ensuring the resilience of water resource systems in the face of changing climate patterns and environmental challenges.
Dam Length |
614 |
Dam Height |
43.9 |
River Or Stream |
Twittys Creek - VAHU6 RU84 Twittys Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
154 |
Hydraulic Height |
43.9 |
Drainage Area |
15.5 |
Nid Storage |
5535 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
44 |
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.
Roanoke Creek Dam # 72a