Payne Pond Reservoir Report
Nearby: Nelson County Dam #6 Stevens Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Payne Pond in Nelson, Virginia, is a state-regulated water resource managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
This dam structure, with a height of 29.75 feet, serves multiple purposes and has a storage capacity of 62.95 acre-feet. The pond covers an area of 4.2 acres and is situated in a picturesque location with coordinates 37.7416 latitude and -78.8694 longitude.
While the hazard potential of Payne Pond is currently marked as undetermined, its condition assessment is not rated, suggesting a need for further evaluation. The emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures for the dam are yet to be determined. Despite these uncertainties, the pond remains a significant water resource in the region, providing recreational opportunities and supporting the surrounding ecosystem.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Payne Pond can explore its regulatory framework, structural details, and potential risk factors. As a state-regulated facility, the pond offers insight into dam management practices and the importance of monitoring and maintaining such water structures in the face of changing environmental conditions. Further research and assessment are needed to fully understand the role of Payne Pond in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in Virginia.
Dam Height |
29.75 |
Surface Area |
4.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
29.75 |
Nid Storage |
62.95 |
Structural Height |
29.75 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tye River Near Lovingston
|
34cfs |
Piney River At Piney River
|
26cfs |
Rockfish River Near Greenfield
|
31cfs |
James River At Bent Creek
|
1120cfs |
James River At Scottsville
|
1460cfs |
South River Near Waynesboro
|
34cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Payne Pond