Roanoke Creek Dam # 43a Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Roanoke Creek Dam # 43a, also known as Ruritan Lake, is a local government-owned structure located in Charlotte Court House, Virginia.
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Summary
This dam plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction for the area, with a height of 31 feet and a length of 855 feet. It has a storage capacity of 2219 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 36.2 acres, serving a drainage area of 4.8 square miles.
The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia and is inspected regularly to ensure its integrity and safety. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the condition assessment as of November 2019 was rated as fair. The emergency action plan (EAP) for the dam was last reviewed in November 2016, and while it meets guidelines, there is room for improvement in terms of risk assessment and management measures.
With its strategic location and vital role in flood risk reduction, Roanoke Creek Dam # 43a stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the condition and regulatory oversight of such structures is essential to ensure the safety and well-being of the surrounding communities.
Dam Length |
855 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
Dunnavant Creek - VAHU6 RU81 Roanoke Creek - Spring Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
36.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
31 |
Drainage Area |
4.8 |
Nid Storage |
2219 |
Structural Height |
31 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
31 |
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 # 43a