Lower North River # 81c Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lower North River # 81c, also known as Switzer Dam, is a critical infrastructure owned by the local government in Rockingham, Virginia.


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Summary

This dam, located on the Skidmore Fork, serves multiple purposes including flood risk reduction and water supply. Standing at a height of 143 feet with a length of 450 feet, it has a storage capacity of 10,357 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 119 acres. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia and has a high hazard potential.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of April 2017, Lower North River # 81c poses a high hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. The dam has a history of flood risk reduction and plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential disasters. With its location in a region prone to climate variability, the dam's maintenance and monitoring are essential for the community's safety and water resource management.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of Lower North River # 81c in Rockingham, Virginia, highlights the importance of sustainable infrastructure development and management in the face of changing environmental conditions. The dam's critical role in flood risk reduction and water supply underscores the need for ongoing attention and investment to ensure its continued effectiveness in safeguarding the local community and environment.

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

143

River Or Stream

Skidmore Fork

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

119

Hydraulic Height

143

Drainage Area

14.7

Nid Storage

10357

Structural Height

143

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

143
       
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.