Rappahannock Dam #7 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rappahannock Dam #7, located in Rappahannock, Virginia, is a state-regulated structure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This dam, with a height of 29.5 feet, serves a crucial role in water resource management by providing storage capacity of 56.99 acre-feet and normal storage of 42.1 acre-feet. Despite its undetermined hazard potential and lack of a condition rating, Rappahannock Dam #7 is equipped with inspection, permitting, and enforcement protocols to ensure its safety and functionality.

Situated within the Baltimore District, Rappahannock Dam #7's primary purpose and dam type remain unspecified, but its structural integrity and hydraulic height of 29.5 feet demonstrate its importance in managing water resources in the region effectively. While the dam lacks specific details on spillway type or outlet gates, it plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks, maintaining water supply, and supporting environmental conservation efforts. As an essential infrastructure in Virginia, Rappahannock Dam #7 exemplifies the state's commitment to sustainable water resource management and climate resilience.

As an asset under the ownership of unspecified entities, Rappahannock Dam #7's potential for risk management and emergency preparedness measures remains unassessed. With its undetermined hazard potential and condition rating, there is a need for further evaluation and monitoring to ensure the dam's safety and efficacy. This structure's significance in water resource management highlights the importance of ongoing maintenance, inspection, and regulatory oversight to safeguard the environment and communities that rely on its services.

Dam Height

29.5

Surface Area

3.9

Hydraulic Height

29.5

Nid Storage

56.99

Structural Height

29.5

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

30
       
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.