Deer Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Deer Lake Dam, also known as Camp Chicahomony, is a privately owned earth dam located in James City, Virginia.


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Summary

The dam, which is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, serves primarily for recreational purposes, providing a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 71 acre-feet. With a height of 35 feet and a length of 385 feet, the dam contributes to the management of the YARMOUTH CREEK tributary.

Although the dam has a low hazard potential and is currently rated as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, it is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and integrity. The last recorded condition assessment was conducted in September 2006, with an inspection frequency of once per year. While no emergency action plan (EAP) has been prepared or updated for the dam, the risk assessment, risk management measures, and other related information remain unspecified.

Deer Lake Dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in maintaining the safety and functionality of essential infrastructure. As enthusiasts in this field, it is crucial to stay informed about the regulatory oversight, maintenance practices, and potential risks associated with dams like Deer Lake to ensure the sustainable use of water resources for generations to come.

Dam Length

385

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

trib. to YARMOUTH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

35

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

35
       
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.