Lower North River # 22b Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lower North River # 22b, also known as Dry Run Dam, is a critical infrastructure managed by the local government in Rockingham, Virginia.


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Summary

This earth-type dam stands at a height of 79.6 feet, serving primarily for flood risk reduction along the Dry Run stream. With a storage capacity of 795 acre-feet and a drainage area of 4.3 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flood hazards.

Despite being state-regulated and inspected, Dry Run Dam carries a high hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance and monitoring. The dam's condition was last assessed as satisfactory in April 2018, and it is essential for the local authorities to ensure that emergency action plans are up-to-date and in line with guidelines. With its strategic location and significant impact on water supply and flood control, Lower North River # 22b stands as a key structure in Virginia's water resource management infrastructure.

As climate change continues to pose challenges in the form of extreme weather events, the role of dams like Lower North River # 22b becomes increasingly crucial in mitigating flood risks and ensuring water supply stability. By understanding the intricacies of this dam's design, purpose, and maintenance schedule, water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the intricate balance between infrastructure development and environmental conservation in safeguarding communities against water-related disasters.

Dam Length

744

Dam Height

79.6

River Or Stream

Dry Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

8

Hydraulic Height

79.6

Drainage Area

4.3

Nid Storage

795

Structural Height

79.6

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

80
       
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.