Poplar Hill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Poplar Hill Dam, also known as Manor Golf Club Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Farmville, Virginia.


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Summary

The dam serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction, irrigation, and recreation along an unnamed tributary to Briery Creek. With a primary purpose of irrigation, the dam stands at a height of 32.3 feet and has a normal storage capacity of 79.7 acre-feet.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Poplar Hill Dam is considered to be in fair condition based on a recent assessment conducted in June 2021. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 50 feet and has a maximum discharge capacity of 1318.5 cubic feet per second. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, the dam has not been modified in recent years and is subject to regular inspections and enforcement by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia.

Overall, Poplar Hill Dam plays a critical role in irrigation and water resource management in the area, while also providing recreational opportunities for the community. Its location within the Wilmington District and its association with the Briery Creek watershed highlight its significance in the region's water infrastructure. With a focus on safety and maintenance, the dam continues to serve as an important feature in the local landscape for both water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate.

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

32.3

River Or Stream

Unnamed tributary to Briery Creek - VAHU6 JA10 Briery Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.1

Drainage Area

0.49

Nid Storage

221.3

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

32
       
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.