Bonneys Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mayo Dam South Tabscott Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Bonneys Dam is a crucial water resource in Goochland, Virginia, designed primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet, with a length of 400 feet, holding a storage capacity of 179 acre-feet. Situated on the tributary of Little Byrd Creek, this dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, ensuring state permitting, inspection, and enforcement are in place to maintain its safety and functionality.
Despite being classified as "Undetermined" in terms of hazard potential and "Not Rated" in condition assessment, Bonneys Dam serves as a vital structure for water management in the region. Although information on the year of completion, condition assessment date, and emergency action plan status is not provided, the presence of regulatory oversight and state jurisdiction indicates a commitment to ensuring the safety and integrity of the dam. With a captivating location in the picturesque county of Goochland, this dam offers not only recreational opportunities but also contributes to the overall water resource management in the area.
With Abigail Davis Spanberger representing the region in Congress, Bonneys Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource infrastructure in Virginia. While details on specific features like spillways, drainage areas, and maximum discharge are not provided, the dam's presence as a state-regulated structure highlights its significance in maintaining the ecological balance and water supply in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the intricacies of Bonneys Dam's design, operation, and regulatory framework offer a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship in managing water resources for both recreational and practical purposes.
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
trib. LITTLE BYRD CREEK |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Nid Storage |
179 |
Structural Height |
23 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
23 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James River At Cartersville
|
1950cfs |
Rivanna River At Palmyra
|
175cfs |
Fine Creek At Fine Creek Mills
|
3cfs |
Slate River Near Arvonia
|
68cfs |
Hardware River Bl Briery Run Nr Scottsville
|
52cfs |
James River At Scottsville
|
1470cfs |
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.
Bonneys Dam
Columbia Road Columbia