Warburton Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Warburton Pond Dam, located in James City, Virginia, is a private earth dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 14 feet and spanning 400 feet in length, the dam provides a storage capacity of 230 acre-feet. Although the exact year of completion is not specified, the dam has been regulated and inspected by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, ensuring its safety and compliance with state standards.

The dam, situated on a tributary of Gordon Creek, is classified as having an undetermined hazard potential with a satisfactory condition assessment as of the last inspection in April 2017. While emergency action plans and risk assessments are not explicitly outlined in the data, the dam's structure and functionality appear to meet guidelines set by regulatory agencies. With its serene surroundings and recreational opportunities, Warburton Pond Dam serves as a vital water resource for the local community while also contributing to the ecological balance of the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Warburton Pond Dam presents a fascinating case study of a privately owned earth dam that plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities in Virginia. As discussions surrounding dam safety and environmental stewardship continue to evolve, the maintenance and regulation of structures like Warburton Pond Dam become increasingly important. By understanding the complexities of managing such water resources, enthusiasts can gain valuable insights into the intersection of human activities, natural ecosystems, and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

trib. Gordon Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

14

Nid Storage

230

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

14
       
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.