Ca Ira Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Ca Ira Dam, located in Cumberland, Virginia, is a gravity dam on the Willis River with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 13 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 227 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 176 acre-feet. While the hazard potential of the dam is currently undetermined, it is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place.

Despite its small size, Ca Ira Dam plays a vital role in providing recreational opportunities for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area. With its picturesque location along the Willis River, the dam offers a tranquil setting for activities such as fishing, boating, and hiking. While the dam's condition assessment is currently not rated, its structural integrity is maintained through regular inspections and emergency preparedness measures.

Overall, Ca Ira Dam serves as a valuable resource for the local community, offering both recreational benefits and potential water management capabilities. As a regulated structure in Virginia, the dam contributes to the conservation and preservation of the surrounding environment while providing a safe and enjoyable space for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and appreciate the beauty of the Willis River.

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

WILLIS RIVER

Hydraulic Height

13

Nid Storage

227

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

13
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.