Buffalo Creek Dam # 6 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Buffalo Creek Dam # 6, also known as Bell Lake, is a key flood risk reduction structure located in Keysville, Virginia.
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Summary
Owned by the local government, this earth dam stands at a height of 38 feet and spans 746 feet in length. It holds a maximum storage capacity of 1,373 acre-feet of water, with a normal storage level of 100 acre-feet across its 19.1-acre surface area. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia and is considered to have a significant hazard potential.
Despite being in fair condition as of the last assessment in February 2020, Buffalo Creek Dam # 6 is subject to regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The spillway, which is uncontrolled and 125 feet wide, helps manage excess water during heavy rainfall events. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam is equipped with emergency action plans in case of a potential breach or flooding situation. As a vital component in the region's flood risk reduction efforts, Buffalo Creek Dam # 6 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding community from potential water-related disasters.
Dam Length |
746 |
Dam Height |
38 |
River Or Stream |
Browns Branch of Buffalo Creek - VAHU6 JA07 Buffalo Creek - Little Buffalo Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
19.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
38 |
Drainage Area |
2.3 |
Nid Storage |
1373 |
Structural Height |
38 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
38 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Buffalo Creek Dam # 6