Massanutten Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Massanutten Dam, also known as Painter's Pond, is a private-owned structure located in Rockingham, Virginia, along the Stony Run river.


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Summary

Designed by Viola Engineering, this Earth-type dam stands at 35 feet tall and stretches 540 feet in length. Its primary purpose is for recreation, offering a serene surface area of 5 acres and a storage capacity of 77 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 56 acre-feet.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Massanutten Dam holds significant hazard potential but is currently assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of April 2021. The dam's last inspection date was in April 2021, with an inspection frequency of once per year. While it does not have spillway information or associated locks, the dam does play a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities and supporting the local ecosystem.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Massanutten Dam to be a valuable asset in the region, serving as a recreational hub while also contributing to water storage and management along the Stony Run river. With its sturdy design and state-regulated oversight, this dam represents a balance between human enjoyment and environmental stewardship in the beautiful surroundings of Rockingham, Virginia.

Dam Length

540

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

Stony Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

3.14

Nid Storage

77

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

35
       
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.