Byers Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Foundry Lake Dam Crawford Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Byers Dam, located in Powhatan, Virginia, is a privately owned structure that serves the primary purpose of irrigation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Situated on a tributary of Fine Creek, this earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet with a length of 900 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 521 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 434 acre-feet. While the hazard potential of the dam is currently undetermined and its condition is not rated, state regulations, permitting, inspections, and enforcement are in place to ensure its safety and functionality.
Owned by a private entity, Byers Dam is subject to oversight and regulation by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia. Despite lacking a formal assessment of its condition, the dam has a designated emergency action plan and regular inspection schedule in place. With a primary focus on irrigation, the dam also offers recreational opportunities for enthusiasts of water resources and climate. Its location in a picturesque setting in Powhatan County further adds to its appeal as a site of interest for those passionate about sustainable water management and conservation efforts.
With its strategic location and significant storage capacity, Byers Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. While details such as the year of completion and specific design features are not provided, the dam's impact on the local ecosystem and water supply is evident. Enthusiasts and stakeholders in the field of water resources and climate will find Byers Dam to be a captivating subject for further exploration and study, highlighting the intersection of engineering, conservation, and recreation in water resource management.
Dam Length |
900 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
Trib. FINE CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
521 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
20 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Fine Creek At Fine Creek Mills
|
3cfs |
Appomattox River At Mattoax
|
292cfs |
James River At Cartersville
|
1950cfs |
James River And Kanawha Canal Near Richmond
|
131cfs |
James River Near Richmond
|
1960cfs |
Deep Creek Near Mannboro
|
76cfs |
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.
Byers Dam
Mill Mount Trail Powhatan County