Ararat River Dam #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ararat River Dam #2 in Virginia is a local government-owned structure designed for flood risk reduction along the Clarks Creek tributary.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 30.1 feet, with a length of 270 feet, and a storage capacity of 56 acre-feet. Situated in Patrick County, Virginia, the dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation and undergoes state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes to ensure its safety and functionality.

Despite being last inspected in 2007 and currently rated as 'Not Rated' in terms of condition assessment, Ararat River Dam #2 plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the region. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, aligning with its operational capacity to store and manage water levels during periods of high discharge. While the dam's hazard potential remains undetermined, ongoing monitoring and potential updates to emergency action plans may further enhance its resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

As a significant component of the local water resource infrastructure, Ararat River Dam #2 warrants continued attention and maintenance to uphold its critical function in protecting communities from potential flooding events. With its strategic location and state-regulated status, the dam represents a key asset in managing water flow and safeguarding the surrounding area from the impacts of extreme weather events. Ongoing efforts to assess and address any potential risks associated with the dam will be essential in ensuring its long-term effectiveness in flood risk reduction for the region.

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

30.1

River Or Stream

TRIB - CLARKS CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

30.1

Drainage Area

0.26

Nid Storage

56

Structural Height

30.1

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

30
       
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.