Watkins Road Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Watkins Road Dam, located in Hanover, Virginia, is a state-regulated structure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at a height of 17 feet with a storage capacity of 69 acre-feet, serves the purpose of water resource management in the region. Situated along a tributary of Mill Creek, the dam plays a crucial role in controlling water flow and ensuring the safety of the surrounding area.

Despite its undetermined hazard potential and lack of a condition assessment rating, Watkins Road Dam remains an essential infrastructure for the community. With regular state inspections and enforcement measures in place, the dam is maintained to meet safety standards and protect against potential risks. While specific details about the dam's construction year and design are not provided, its significance in water resource management is evident through its state-regulated status and operational capacity.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate in Virginia may find Watkins Road Dam to be a fascinating subject of study, given its location, purpose, and regulatory oversight. As part of the larger network of dams in the region, this structure contributes to the overall water management efforts and plays a critical role in mitigating flood risks and ensuring sustainable utilization of water resources. Further research and monitoring of Watkins Road Dam could provide valuable insights into the intersection of infrastructure, environmental protection, and climate resilience in the area.

Dam Height

17

River Or Stream

trib. Mill Creek

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

69

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

17
       
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.