Bernard Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Located in Franklin, Virginia, the Bernard Dam stands as a vital water resource in the region, regulating the flow of the TR-STANDIFORD CREEK.


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Summary

This earth dam, with a height of 26 feet, primarily serves a recreational purpose, offering opportunities for outdoor activities and water-based sports. Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam is state-regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and efficiency.

With a storage capacity of 40 acre-feet, the Bernard Dam provides essential water management functions, supporting the local ecosystem and surrounding communities. While the hazard potential of the dam is currently undetermined, regular inspections are conducted to assess its condition. Although the dam's condition is not rated, emergency preparedness plans are in place to address any unforeseen events, ensuring the safety of those living downstream.

As a key feature in the Norfolk District, the Bernard Dam serves as a testament to the importance of water resource management in mitigating the impacts of climate change. Its presence not only enhances recreational opportunities but also highlights the need for sustainable infrastructure to adapt to changing environmental conditions and ensure a reliable water supply for future generations.

Dam Height

26

River Or Stream

TR-STANDIFORD CREEK

Hydraulic Height

26

Nid Storage

40

Structural Height

26

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

26
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.