Airfield Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Carroll Dam Parker No. 2 Dam
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Airfield Pond Dam, located in Sussex, Virginia, is a state-regulated earth dam standing at a height of 10 feet.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam serves as a recreational water resource on the Willis Branch river, providing a storage capacity of 387.1 acre-feet and covering a surface area of 31.4 acres. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam is in poor condition as of the last assessment in February 2021, highlighting the need for maintenance and repair to ensure public safety and water resource sustainability.
Owned and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Airfield Pond Dam is subject to state inspection, permitting, and enforcement. With a primary purpose of recreation, the dam offers opportunities for outdoor activities in the surrounding area. However, its poor condition and significant hazard potential underscore the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate risks and safeguard the local community and environment. The dam's location within the Wilmington District and its association with the Willis Branch river make it a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the management and conservation of these vital natural assets.
As a key feature in the water infrastructure of Sussex, Virginia, Airfield Pond Dam plays a critical role in the local ecosystem and community. Its historical background and current condition present challenges and opportunities for sustainable water resource management. By addressing the dam's maintenance needs and ensuring regulatory compliance, stakeholders can work towards preserving this valuable recreational resource while promoting water conservation and climate resilience in the region.
Dam Length |
632 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
WILLIS BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
31.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
6.5 |
Nid Storage |
387.1 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Blackwater River Near Dendron
|
132cfs |
Nottoway River Near Sebrell
|
328cfs |
Blackwater River Near Franklin
|
256cfs |
Nottoway River Near Stony Creek
|
787cfs |
Meherrin River At Emporia
|
882cfs |
Appomattox River At Matoaca
|
555cfs |
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.
Airfield Pond Dam