Austin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Austin Dam, located in Nottoway, Virginia, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam on the TR-WEST CREEK river serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with some recreational use as well. Standing at a height of 23 feet, it has a storage capacity of 101 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 50 acre-feet.

Despite its age and limited data availability, Austin Dam's hazard potential is still undetermined, and its condition is not rated. The dam has not been inspected recently, but it is state-regulated and subject to inspection, permitting, and enforcement. The emergency action plan status and risk assessment for the dam are currently unknown, highlighting the need for further evaluation and monitoring to ensure the safety and sustainability of the structure.

With its historical significance and role in water resource management, Austin Dam presents an intriguing case study for enthusiasts interested in dams, water infrastructure, and climate resilience. As efforts continue to assess and manage the risks associated with aging dams, Austin Dam stands as a reminder of the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring to safeguard communities and the environment from potential hazards.

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

TR-WEST CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

101

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.