Willow Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Willow Lake Dam, also known as Koogler Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Rockbridge, Virginia.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam is situated on Moores Creek and serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a height of 26.3 feet and a length of 1100 feet, Willow Lake Dam provides a storage capacity of 363 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 208 acre-feet. The dam is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

The dam's hazard potential is currently classified as undetermined, with its condition assessment marked as 'Not Rated' as of the last inspection in June 2015. While the Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status is unspecified, the dam is inspected annually to assess any potential risks and ensure prompt action in case of emergencies. The surrounding area features a surface area of 26 acres and a drainage area of 2 square miles, making it a vital resource for water management in the region.

With its scenic location and significant water storage capacity, Willow Lake Dam stands as an essential component of the water infrastructure in Rockbridge, Virginia. Despite its private ownership, the dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities while also contributing to water resource management and flood control in the area. Its state-regulated status and regular inspections demonstrate a commitment to safety and environmental stewardship, making Willow Lake Dam a notable structure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore and appreciate.

Dam Length

1100

Dam Height

26.3

River Or Stream

MOORES CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

26

Hydraulic Height

26.3

Drainage Area

2

Nid Storage

363

Structural Height

26.3

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

26
       
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.