Layman Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Layman Dam, located in Powhatan, Virginia, is a privately-owned structure with a height of 24.5 feet and a storage capacity of 202.27 acre-feet.


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Summary

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this dam is essential for water resource management in the area. While its hazard potential is currently categorized as 'Undetermined', the dam's condition assessment is marked as 'Not Rated', suggesting a need for further evaluation to ensure its safety and functionality.

Constructed with a length of 375 feet, Layman Dam serves as a vital component for water supply and flood control in the region. Despite lacking detailed information on its construction year and specific purposes, the dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the normal storage level of 124.64 acre-feet. With a latitude of 37.4934 and longitude of -77.9702, Layman Dam stands as a significant infrastructure within the Norfolk District, supporting the water needs of the local community and enhancing resilience to climate-related challenges.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, Layman Dam's role in regulating water flow and storage becomes increasingly important. With state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement mechanisms in place, the dam is subject to regular oversight to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and monitoring the condition of Layman Dam is crucial for safeguarding water security and resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Dam Length

375

Dam Height

24.5

Surface Area

16.4

Hydraulic Height

24.5

Nid Storage

202.27

Structural Height

24.5

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

25
       
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.