Rivers Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Rivers Dam, located in Southampton, Virginia, is a state-regulated structure on the Poplar Swamp river.
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Summary
Built for recreational purposes, this Earth dam stands at a height of 8 feet with a storage capacity of 820.1 acre-feet. The dam, completed in an unspecified year, plays a vital role in providing recreational opportunities to the local community while also managing water resources in the area.
Despite being classified as having an undetermined hazard potential and not rated for condition assessment, Rivers Dam is inspected regularly by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia. The last inspection took place in April 2019, ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure. With its location in a serene natural setting, the dam serves as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts and climate-conscious individuals who appreciate the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Managed by state authorities and situated within the Wilmington District, Rivers Dam symbolizes the harmonious coexistence of human recreation and ecological preservation. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and advocate for the responsible use of water infrastructure, Rivers Dam stands as a testament to the balance between human needs and environmental stewardship in the beautiful landscape of Southampton, Virginia.
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
POPLAR SWAMP |
Nid Storage |
820.1 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
8 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nottoway River Near Sebrell
|
396cfs |
Nottoway River Near Stony Creek
|
302cfs |
Meherrin River At Emporia
|
327cfs |
Blackwater River Near Franklin
|
242cfs |
Roanoke River At Roanoke Rapids
|
2810cfs |
Stony Creek Near Dinwiddie
|
32cfs |
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.
Rivers Dam