Anderson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Anderson Dam is a privately owned structure located in Powhatan, Virginia, regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This dam, with a height of 20 feet and a length of 400 feet, serves a crucial role in water storage, with a normal storage capacity of 41.88 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 115.04 acre-feet. Situated within the Norfolk District, Anderson Dam is vital for managing water resources in the region, providing essential support for various purposes.

Despite its importance, Anderson Dam's condition assessment is currently labeled as "Not Rated," with an undetermined hazard potential. The dam has not been inspected in recent years, raising concerns about its ability to withstand potential risks and emergencies. With an emergency action plan yet to be prepared, there is a need for increased monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and reliability of Anderson Dam for both water resource management and climate resilience in the area.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is imperative to stay informed about the status of Anderson Dam and advocate for proper assessments, inspections, and risk management measures to safeguard this critical infrastructure. By addressing the current gaps in evaluation and emergency preparedness, we can work towards enhancing the resilience of Anderson Dam and ensuring its continued support for water storage and conservation efforts in Powhatan, Virginia.

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

20

Surface Area

7.22

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

115.04

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

20
       
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.