Little Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Little Dam in Powhatan, Virginia, stands at a modest height of 26.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 96.99 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 66.24 acre-feet.


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Summary

This private dam is regulated by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation and has been inspected by state authorities, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulations. Located in the Norfolk District, Little Dam is a vital water resource structure in the area, providing essential storage and management of water resources for the surrounding community.

Despite its small size, Little Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region. Owned privately, this dam has not been rated for its condition but is inspected regularly to ensure its stability and safety. The dam's purpose, design, and construction details are not specified in the data, but its presence as a regulated structure highlights its importance in the local water infrastructure network. As climate change impacts water availability and quality, structures like Little Dam become increasingly vital for sustainable water resource management.

With a history dating back to an undetermined completion year, Little Dam has stood the test of time as a reliable water management tool in Powhatan, Virginia. While its hazard potential is labeled as undetermined and its condition not rated, the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively. As climate change intensifies and water resources face greater challenges, the role of structures like Little Dam in ensuring water security and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions becomes even more critical.

Dam Length

310

Dam Height

26.5

Surface Area

7.2

Hydraulic Height

26.5

Nid Storage

96.99

Structural Height

26.5

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.