Ransons Dam - South Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Ransons Dam - South is a privately owned structure in Powhatan, Virginia, regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a length of 300 feet, providing a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet for recreational purposes. While its hazard potential is currently undetermined, the dam's condition has not been rated, and it undergoes inspections on a regular basis.

Located in the Norfolk District, Ransons Dam - South is situated in a picturesque area ideal for outdoor activities. Despite lacking specific details on its completion year and storage volume, the dam remains a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region. With its close proximity to the river and stream, the dam offers a tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy and appreciate the surrounding natural beauty.

Although lacking in certain information such as a risk assessment and emergency action plan details, Ransons Dam - South continues to draw interest from those interested in water resource management and climate change adaptation strategies. As a privately owned structure with state-regulated oversight, the dam serves as a valuable asset for both recreational purposes and as a potential case study for exploring the intersection of water resources and climate impacts in Virginia.

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

20

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.