Lower North River # 80 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lower North River # 80, also known as Union Springs Dam, is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Rockingham, Virginia.


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Summary

Owned by the local government and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this earth dam stands at a height of 81.7 feet and has a storage capacity of 1345 acre-feet to manage the floodwaters of Union Springs Run.

Constructed by USDA NRCS, Lower North River # 80 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential hazards, as it has been assessed as having a high hazard potential yet remains in satisfactory condition. With a drainage area of 5.2 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 462 acre-feet, this dam continues to serve its primary purpose of flood risk reduction effectively.

The last inspection in April 2018 confirmed its structural integrity, and with an established inspection frequency, the dam is well-maintained to ensure its reliability in the face of potential emergencies. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lower North River # 80 stands as a testament to sustainable infrastructure management in safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events.

Dam Length

925

Dam Height

81.7

River Or Stream

Union Springs Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23.3

Hydraulic Height

81.7

Drainage Area

5.2

Nid Storage

1345

Structural Height

81.7

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

82
       
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.