Mears Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Miller Dam Northampton Dam # 1
Last Updated: January 11, 2026
Mears Dam, located in Northampton, Virginia along the TR-MATTAWOMAN CREEK, is a crucial water resource infrastructure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 13 feet and stretches 278 feet in length, providing irrigation for the surrounding area with a storage capacity of 123 acre-feet. Despite its importance for water management, the dam's hazard potential is currently classified as "Undetermined" and its condition has not been rated, indicating a need for further assessment and monitoring.
The dam, owned by unspecified entities, is regulated by the state of Virginia and undergoes regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement to ensure its safety and functionality. With a primary purpose of irrigation, Mears Dam serves as a critical component of the local water infrastructure, contributing to the sustainability of the region's agricultural activities. As an essential structure in water resource management, Mears Dam plays a key role in maintaining the balance of water supply and demand in the area.
Potential risks and emergency preparedness measures for Mears Dam remain unspecified, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and assessment to mitigate any potential hazards. With its location in a vibrant water-rich environment, the dam serves as a lifeline for agricultural activities in Northampton, Virginia, underscoring the importance of sustainable water management practices and infrastructure maintenance in the face of changing climate patterns.
Dam Length |
278 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MATTAWOMAN CREEK |
Hydraulic Height |
13 |
Nid Storage |
123 |
Structural Height |
13 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
13 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Mears Dam