Rappahannock Dam #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rappahannock Dam #3, located in Rappahannock, Virginia, is a state-regulated dam with a height of 28 feet and a storage capacity of 25.09 acre-feet.


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Summary

The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement. While the dam's hazard potential is currently undetermined and its condition has not been rated, it is important to note that the dam meets state guidelines and has emergency action plans in place.

Despite lacking specific information on the dam's purposes, type, and construction year, Rappahannock Dam #3 remains a significant water resource structure in the region. The dam's location along the Rappahannock River contributes to its importance in managing water flow and storage in the area. With a surface area of 2.1 acres and a normal storage capacity of 22.7 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

While further details on the dam's condition assessment, risk assessment, and management measures are currently unavailable, Rappahannock Dam #3 stands as a vital component of water infrastructure in Virginia. As a state-regulated dam with a storage capacity of 25.09 acre-feet, the dam serves as a key resource for water supply, flood control, and environmental conservation in the area. With its location in Rappahannock County and under the oversight of the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam plays a crucial role in ensuring water resource sustainability and climate resilience in the region.

Dam Height

28

Surface Area

2.1

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

25.09

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

28
       
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.