Roanoke Creek Dam # 61a Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Roanoke Creek Dam # 61a, also known as Lacks Lake, is a local government-owned structure located in Charlotte, Virginia, near the city of Drakes Branch.
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Summary
This earth-type dam stands at a height of 36.4 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the unnamed tributary to Horsepen Creek. With a storage capacity of 794 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 59 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and mitigating potential flooding in the area.
The dam has a high hazard potential but is currently assessed as satisfactory in its condition, with the most recent inspection conducted in November 2019. The Department of Conservation and Recreation of Virginia oversees the regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement of this dam, ensuring its compliance with state standards and safety measures. Despite not being under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Roanoke Creek Dam # 61a remains a vital structure in the local water resource management system, emphasizing the importance of proper maintenance and risk management practices to safeguard the surrounding community and environment from potential hazards.
Overall, Roanoke Creek Dam # 61a stands as a critical infrastructure component in the flood risk reduction strategy for the region, demonstrating the collaborative efforts between local government agencies and state regulators to ensure the safety and resilience of water resources in the face of changing climatic conditions. The dam's role in controlling water flow, storing excess water, and reducing flood risks underscores its significance in protecting the community and surrounding areas from potential water-related disasters. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and monitoring the condition and management of structures like Roanoke Creek Dam # 61a is essential for promoting sustainable water management practices and enhancing resilience to climate impacts in the region.
Dam Length |
1029 |
Dam Height |
36.4 |
River Or Stream |
Unnamed tributary to Horsepen Creek - VAHU6 RU85 Horsepen Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
12.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
36.4 |
Drainage Area |
2.66 |
Nid Storage |
794 |
Structural Height |
36.4 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
36 |
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 # 61a