Turner Pond Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Turner Pond Dam, also known as Natural Bridge Dam #3 or Turner Dam, is a private and state-owned structure located in Rockbridge, Virginia.


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Summary

Built in 1947, this earth dam stands at a height of 42.3 feet and has a storage capacity of 130.3 acre-feet, primarily serving the purpose of flood risk reduction. With a normal storage level of 112.2 acre-feet and a surface area of 8.25 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its important function, Turner Pond Dam has been assessed to be in poor condition, with a high hazard potential. The last inspection in 2017 raised concerns about the dam's structural integrity, prompting the need for regular monitoring and maintenance. The Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia oversees the regulation, inspection, and enforcement of the dam, ensuring that safety measures are in place to mitigate any potential risks to the surrounding community and environment.

Given its location on TR-Cedar Creek and the significant drainage area it serves, Turner Pond Dam poses a very high risk to the area in case of a failure. With a risk assessment rating of 1 (very high), it is crucial for the responsible agencies and owners to prioritize the dam's maintenance and risk management measures. Climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates should closely monitor the dam's condition and support efforts to ensure its continued safety and functionality for flood risk reduction and recreation purposes.

Year Completed

1947

Dam Length

800

Dam Height

42.3

River Or Stream

TR-CEDAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8.25

Drainage Area

0.33

Nid Storage

130.3

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

42
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.