Nixons Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Nixons Dam, located in Powhatan, Virginia, is a vital water resource infrastructure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at 22 feet high and stretches 500 feet in length, primarily serving the purpose of irrigation. With a storage capacity of 261 acre-feet, the dam also supports recreational activities in the surrounding area.

Although the hazard potential of Nixons Dam is currently undetermined and its condition is not rated, regular inspections are conducted to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its critical role in supporting irrigation and recreation, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are yet to be fully developed, posing a potential area for improvement in ensuring the safety of the structure and surrounding communities. With its strategic location on a tributary of Deep Creek, Nixons Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Nixons Dam represents a key piece of infrastructure in Powhatan, Virginia, supporting agricultural activities and recreational opportunities. As efforts continue to enhance emergency preparedness and risk management for the dam, it remains a focal point for ensuring sustainable water usage and safety in the area. The collaboration between state regulatory agencies, local authorities, and stakeholders is essential in maintaining the integrity and functionality of Nixons Dam for the benefit of the community and the environment.

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

trib. Deep Creek ---- ----- location: 5918 Anderson Hwy

Hydraulic Height

22

Nid Storage

261

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

22
       
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.