Upper Blackwater River Dam #6 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Upper Blackwater River Dam #6, also known as Bowman Dam, is a vital structure owned by the local government of Franklin, Virginia.
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Summary
Situated along the Blackwater River, this earth-type dam stands at a height of 50 feet and stretches 550 feet in length, providing crucial flood risk reduction for the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 672 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 77 acre-feet, the dam serves as a key asset in managing water resources in the region.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Upper Blackwater River Dam #6 has a high hazard potential and is classified as being in fair condition as of the last assessment in July 2019. Regular inspections and enforcement measures are carried out to ensure the dam's safety and functionality, with state permitting, inspection, and regulatory processes in place. Despite its importance in flood risk reduction, the dam does not have a spillway or outlet gates, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to uphold its effectiveness in protecting the community.
Located in the Wilmington District and within the congressional jurisdiction of Representative Denver Riggleman, Upper Blackwater River Dam #6 plays a crucial role in safeguarding the Franklin area from potential flooding events. As climate change continues to impact water resources and weather patterns, the dam's significance in water management and flood control will only become more pronounced, underscoring the importance of continued support and investment in its upkeep and maintenance.
Dam Length |
550 |
Dam Height |
50 |
River Or Stream |
TR-BLACKWATER RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
50 |
Drainage Area |
2.57 |
Nid Storage |
672 |
Structural Height |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
50 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Blackwater River Near Rocky Mount
|
56cfs |
S F Roanoke River Near Shawsville
|
37cfs |
Back Creek Near Dundee
|
19cfs |
Roanoke River At Roanoke
|
77cfs |
Roanoke River At Lafayette
|
71cfs |
Roanoke River At Glenvar
|
71cfs |
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.
Upper Blackwater River Dam #6