Ragsdale Large Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Epperson Dam Elkhorn Dam
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Ragsdale Large Dam, located in Pittsylvania, Virginia, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 28 feet, this earth dam holds a maximum storage capacity of 61 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4.7 acres. The dam, completed at an unknown date, serves as a critical water resource for the surrounding area, with a primary purpose that remains unspecified.
Although the condition assessment of Ragsdale Large Dam is currently marked as "Not Rated," its hazard potential is classified as "Undetermined." This lack of assessment raises questions about the safety and stability of the structure, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its reliability. Despite the uncertainty surrounding its risk assessment and emergency preparedness, the dam continues to play a vital role in managing water resources in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data on Ragsdale Large Dam sparks curiosity about the management and regulation of this essential infrastructure. With its proximity to the Bird Creek tributary and its significant storage capacity, understanding the condition and potential risks associated with this dam is crucial for safeguarding the local ecosystem and communities that rely on its services. Further research and evaluation are needed to fully grasp the implications of this dam on water resource management and climate resilience in the area.
Dam Length |
360 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
Unnamed Tributary to Bird Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
28 |
Nid Storage |
61 |
Structural Height |
28 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Roanoke River At Altavista
|
659cfs |
Banister River At Halifax
|
217cfs |
Dan River At Paces
|
1490cfs |
Roanoke (Staunton) River At Brookneal
|
871cfs |
Pigg River Near Sandy Level
|
239cfs |
Dan River At South Boston
|
1480cfs |
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.
Ragsdale Large Dam