Rappahannock Dam #21 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rappahannock Dam #21 is a structure located in Rappahannock, Virginia, with a height of 27 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 70.63 acre-feet.


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Summary

While details about its construction year and purpose are not provided, the dam is regulated and inspected by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia. The dam's hazard potential is listed as undetermined, and its condition assessment is not rated, suggesting a need for further evaluation.

Despite the lack of specific information on the dam's design and purpose, its presence in the Baltimore District signals its importance in managing water resources in the region. The dam's location at a latitude of 38.6537 and longitude of -78.0468 highlights its strategic positioning within the state. With a normal storage capacity of 32.7 acre-feet and a surface area of 3.8 acres, Rappahannock Dam #21 plays a crucial role in water management and conservation efforts in Virginia.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Rappahannock Dam #21 presents an intriguing case study in dam management and regulation. The dam's association with the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the state's regulatory agency, underscores the importance of maintaining infrastructure for water security. While the dam's specific purposes and design details remain unknown, its presence as a controlled structure with a significant storage capacity indicates its critical role in mitigating flood risks and ensuring sustainable water supply in the region.

Dam Height

27

Surface Area

3.8

Hydraulic Height

27

Nid Storage

70.63

Structural Height

27

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

27
       
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.