Rappahannock Dam #15 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rappahannock Dam #15 is a vital water resource infrastructure located in Rappahannock, Virginia.


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Summary

This dam, with a height of 36 feet, serves multiple purposes, including water storage and management. Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, this dam has a storage capacity of 81.22 acre-feet and a normal storage capacity of 51.7 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 4.1 acres.

Although the dam's hazard potential is currently labeled as "Undetermined" and its condition assessment is "Not Rated," regular inspections and enforcement measures are in place to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam's emergency action plan readiness and risk management measures are yet to be determined, underscoring the importance of ongoing monitoring and assessment to safeguard against potential risks and ensure the dam's resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.

As a key component of water resource management in the region, Rappahannock Dam #15 plays a crucial role in maintaining water supply and mitigating flood risks. With its location in Rappahannock County and under the jurisdiction of the state regulatory agency, this dam underscores the intersection of infrastructure, climate resilience, and water resource management in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Dam Height

36

Surface Area

4.1

Hydraulic Height

36

Nid Storage

81.22

Structural Height

36

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

36
       
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.