Northampton Dam # 1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Kellam Dam Mears Dam
Last Updated: January 11, 2026
Northampton Dam # 1, located in Eastville, Virginia, is a private-owned earth dam with a height of 13 feet and a length of 545 feet.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
It impounds Barlow Creek and is part of the Lower Chesapeake Bay watershed. The dam has a storage capacity of 60.4 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 10.4 acres. While the dam is classified as having an undetermined hazard potential and is currently not rated in terms of condition assessment, it is subject to state regulation and inspection by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
Despite its relatively small size and unknown risk level, Northampton Dam # 1 plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. Its presence helps control the flow of water in Barlow Creek and contributes to the overall health of the watershed. Climate enthusiasts and water resource professionals alike may be interested in studying the dam's impact on local ecosystems and its potential for future modifications or enhancements to improve its performance and safety standards. Additionally, its location in a coastal area susceptible to climate change effects adds another layer of complexity to its management and maintenance.
As a structure with a primary purpose listed as "Other," Northampton Dam # 1 represents a unique case in dam infrastructure. Its exact construction date and details of any modifications over the years remain unknown, adding to the mystery and intrigue surrounding this relatively modest dam. With its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay and the involvement of state agencies in its regulation and inspection, this dam serves as a focal point for discussions on water resource management, climate resilience, and the intersection of human-made structures with natural ecosystems.
Dam Length |
545 |
Dam Height |
13 |
River Or Stream |
Barlow Creek - VAHU6 CB45 Lower Chesapeake Bay - Hungars Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10.4 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
60.4 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
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.
Northampton Dam # 1