Watson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Watson Dam, located in Prince Edward, Virginia, is a vital water resource structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam on the TR-Sandy River stands at 18 feet in height and serves multiple purposes, including irrigation and recreation. With a storage capacity of 118 acre-feet, it provides essential water supply for the surrounding area while also offering recreational opportunities for visitors.

Despite its importance, Watson Dam's hazard potential and condition assessment remain undetermined and not rated, respectively. The dam has not undergone recent inspections, and its emergency action plan status is unknown. As a result, the risk management measures and readiness for potential incidents at the dam are unclear. This raises concerns for the safety and maintenance of the structure, highlighting the need for further assessment and monitoring.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts should pay attention to Watson Dam's status and the efforts needed to ensure its safety and functionality. As a key infrastructure for both water supply and recreational activities, the dam's condition and risk potential require thorough evaluation and management. By staying informed and advocating for proper maintenance and monitoring of Watson Dam, enthusiasts can contribute to the sustainable use of this essential water resource.

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-SANDY RIVER

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

118

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

18
       
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.