Lower North River # 78 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Lower North River # 78, also known as Briery Branch Dam, is a vital water resource infrastructure located in Rockingham, Virginia.
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Summary
Owned by the local government, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Briery Branch stream. Standing at a towering height of 89 feet and spanning 762 feet in length, the dam has a storage capacity of 2550 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 32.2 acres, providing essential protection to the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
Managed and regulated by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Lower North River # 78 has been deemed to have a high hazard potential, yet maintains a satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in April 2018. Despite its critical role in flood risk mitigation, the dam lacks certain features such as a spillway type and outlet gates, raising concerns about its operational effectiveness in extreme scenarios. With the last inspection conducted in 2018 and a designated inspection frequency of once per year, ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts are crucial to ensure the continued safety and functionality of this essential water infrastructure.
As a significant component of the local water management system, Lower North River # 78 plays a vital role in safeguarding the community from potential flood risks along the Briery Branch stream. With its strategic location and substantial storage capacity, the dam stands as a key asset in the region's resilience against natural disasters. Continuous oversight and adherence to regulatory standards are essential to uphold the structural integrity and operational efficiency of this critical infrastructure for the long-term benefit of the surrounding area and its residents.
Dam Length |
762 |
Dam Height |
89 |
River Or Stream |
Briery Branch |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
32.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
89 |
Drainage Area |
9.4 |
Nid Storage |
2550 |
Structural Height |
89 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
89 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Hone Quarry Campground
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Todd Lake Recreation Area
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North River Campground
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Brandywine Recreation Area
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Brandywine campground
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Lower North River # 78
North River Campground To Camp May Flather