Townsend Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Townsend Dam, located in King and Queen, Virginia, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 20 feet, this earth dam serves as a crucial resource for managing water supply in the area. While its exact completion date is unknown, the dam has a storage capacity of 105 acre-feet and is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia.

Despite being classified as having an undetermined hazard potential and not yet rated for its condition, Townsend Dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a designated inspection frequency of once a year, the dam remains a vital component of the local water infrastructure. Additionally, the dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures are currently marked as pending, indicating ongoing efforts to enhance its safety and emergency preparedness.

Overall, Townsend Dam presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, showcasing the intricate balance of water management and infrastructure maintenance. As a privately owned structure in Virginia, its role in supporting irrigation and recreational activities underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management practices. With continued regulatory oversight and monitoring, Townsend Dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to safeguard water resources in the region.

Dam Height

20

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

105

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.