Orapax Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fairfield Dam Little Creek Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Orapax Dam, located in Goochland, Virginia, is a privately owned structure primarily designed for recreation purposes.
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Summary
The dam, standing at a height of 26 feet with a length of 396 feet, sits on a tributary of the James River and offers a serene environment for fish and wildlife ponds. Despite its recreational focus, the dam is regulated by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, ensuring that it meets all state permitting, inspection, and enforcement standards.
While the hazard potential of Orapax Dam is currently categorized as undetermined, its condition assessment is marked as not rated. The dam has a storage capacity of 98 acre-feet and remains a key feature for outdoor enthusiasts seeking leisure activities in the area. With its picturesque location and connection to the natural surroundings, Orapax Dam provides an ideal setting for visitors to enjoy the beauty of Virginia's water resources while maintaining a commitment to safety and regulatory compliance.
Overall, Orapax Dam serves as a vital piece of infrastructure within the region, offering both recreational opportunities and support for fish and wildlife habitats. Managed by private owners and regulated by the state, this earth dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of a changing climate. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates alike continue to appreciate the beauty of Orapax Dam, its role in maintaining the delicate balance of the local ecosystem remains paramount for future generations to enjoy.
Dam Length |
396 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
trib. James River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
98 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
James River At Cartersville
|
1950cfs |
Fine Creek At Fine Creek Mills
|
3cfs |
Appomattox River At Mattoax
|
292cfs |
Rivanna River At Palmyra
|
175cfs |
James River And Kanawha Canal Near Richmond
|
131cfs |
South Anna River Near Ashland
|
110cfs |
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.
Orapax Dam
River Trail Powhatan County