Epperson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Epperson Dam in Pittsylvania, Virginia, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at a height of 27 feet with a length of 240 feet, serves as a crucial barrier on an unnamed tributary to Elkhorn Creek. While its primary purpose is not specified, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 20 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2 acres.

Despite being classified as having an undetermined hazard potential and not being rated for its condition, Epperson Dam undergoes regular inspections with a frequency of once a year. Emergency action plans and risk assessment measures have not been prepared or implemented for this dam, suggesting a need for enhanced safety protocols. The dam's proximity to Denver Riggleman's congressional district underscores the importance of monitoring and maintaining its structural integrity to prevent potential risks to the local community and environment.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts should take interest in Epperson Dam as a significant component of the region's water management infrastructure. By keeping a close eye on its maintenance and safety protocols, stakeholders can ensure the continued protection and efficient utilization of this vital water resource.

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

Unnamed tributary to Elkhorn Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

27

Nid Storage

27

Structural Height

27

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

27
       
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.