Whittaker Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 27, 2025

Whittaker Lake Dam, also known as Governor's Land No.


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Summary

2, is a private dam located in James City, Virginia. This earth dam is primarily used for recreational purposes and is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. With a height of 22.09 feet and a storage capacity of 85.4 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing the water resources in the area.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential and not currently rated for its condition, Whittaker Lake Dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement by the state regulatory agency. The dam has not been modified in recent years and lacks certain structural features such as spillways and outlet gates. Emergency action plans have been prepared and updated, ensuring that the proper measures are in place in case of any unforeseen events.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and maintenance of dams will find Whittaker Lake Dam to be a fascinating case study. Located in a picturesque setting near tributaries of Shellbank Creek, this private dam serves as a vital resource for recreational activities while also highlighting the importance of proper regulatory oversight and risk management in ensuring the safety and stability of water infrastructure.

Dam Height

22.09

River Or Stream

trib. Shellbank Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

22.09

Nid Storage

85.4

Structural Height

22.09

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

22
       
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.