Watermill Road Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Watermill Road Dam, located in Loudoun, Virginia, is a privately owned structure designed for flood risk reduction along the Beaverdam Creek tributary.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 23 feet and stretching 267 feet in length, this earth dam provides a storage capacity of 87.1 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 30.4 acre-feet. The dam, regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the area.

Although the hazard potential and condition assessment of Watermill Road Dam remain undetermined and not rated, respectively, the dam is regularly inspected with a frequency of once per year. The emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures are yet to be determined, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance of this vital flood control structure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and improvement of dams like Watermill Road Dam are essential for ensuring the safety and resilience of communities in the face of extreme weather events.

In the absence of a designated emergency action plan and with the risk assessment status unknown, stakeholders must prioritize the development of comprehensive risk management measures for Watermill Road Dam. Collaborative efforts between the private owner, regulatory agencies, and local authorities are crucial to address any potential hazards and ensure the long-term effectiveness of this flood control structure. As water resources and climate enthusiasts, it is imperative to advocate for the proper maintenance and management of dams like Watermill Road Dam to safeguard communities and ecosystems against the growing threats of climate change.

Dam Length

267

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

Beaverdam Creek tributary

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.4

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

87.1

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

23
       
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.