Princes Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Princes Dam, located in Southampton, Virginia, serves as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.
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Summary
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this earth dam stands at a height of 12 feet and has a storage capacity of 95.9 acre-feet. The dam primarily serves the purposes of irrigation and recreation, making it an essential asset for the community.
With a scenic location along TR-Mill Swamp, Princes Dam provides a beautiful setting for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. Despite its undetermined hazard potential and lack of a condition rating, the dam is regularly inspected and maintained by state regulatory agencies to ensure the safety of its infrastructure and surrounding environment. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the significance of dams like Princes Dam in maintaining water supply and managing water-related risks cannot be overstated.
As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, it is important to recognize the role that dams like Princes Dam play in sustaining ecosystems and supporting communities in times of need. By understanding the regulatory framework and maintenance practices that govern these structures, we can appreciate the critical role they play in water management and climate resilience efforts. Princes Dam stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Dam Height |
12 |
River Or Stream |
TR-MILL SWAMP |
Nid Storage |
95.9 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
12 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nottoway River Near Sebrell
|
396cfs |
Blackwater River Near Franklin
|
242cfs |
Potecasi Creek Near Union
|
24cfs |
Nottoway River Near Stony Creek
|
302cfs |
Meherrin River At Emporia
|
327cfs |
Ahoskie Creek At Ahoskie
|
10cfs |
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.
Princes Dam