Rappahannock Dam #23 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rappahannock Dam #23, located in Rappahannock, Virginia, is a state-regulated dam managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 31 feet with a length of 420 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 75.14 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 22.08 acre-feet. Although the hazard potential of the dam is currently undetermined and its condition is not rated, it is subject to regular state inspection and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

Despite lacking detailed information on its construction year and specific purposes, Rappahannock Dam #23 plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. The dam's location at a latitude of 38.6225 and longitude of -78.2167 makes it a key infrastructure for regulating water flow and storage in the area. With its significant surface area of 4.6 acres and a hydraulic height matching its structural height of 31 feet, the dam serves as a vital component in the state's water management infrastructure.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data on Rappahannock Dam #23 piques curiosity about its design, operation, and impact on the local ecosystem. The dam's association with the Baltimore District of the US Army Corps of Engineers adds to its significance, highlighting its role in regional water management efforts. While the dam's risk assessment, emergency action plan, and maintenance history are not explicitly provided in the data, its presence as a regulated structure underscores its importance in safeguarding water resources and mitigating potential hazards in the region.

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

31

Surface Area

4.6

Hydraulic Height

31

Nid Storage

75.14

Structural Height

31

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

31
       
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.