Horne Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Harrells Dam J. B. Harrell Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Horne Dam, located in Sussex, Virginia, on the South Fork Poplar Swamp, serves as a vital recreational site in the area.
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Summary
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this earth dam stands at a height of 15 feet and stores a maximum of 89 acre-feet of water. While the dam's condition is currently not rated, it is regularly inspected and monitored to ensure its safety and functionality for visitors.
With a primary purpose of recreation, Horne Dam offers opportunities for boating, fishing, and other outdoor activities in a picturesque natural setting. Despite being classified as having an undetermined hazard potential, the dam remains a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore and enjoy the beauty of the South Fork Poplar Swamp. As a regulated structure in Virginia, the dam is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement to uphold safety standards and protect the surrounding environment.
Visitors to Horne Dam can appreciate its contribution to water resource management and climate resilience in the region while experiencing the benefits of outdoor recreation. As efforts continue to assess and improve the dam's condition and emergency preparedness, it remains a valuable asset for the local community and a symbol of the intersection between human activity and natural landscapes. Whether for relaxation or education, Horne Dam offers a unique opportunity to engage with water resources and climate dynamics in a hands-on and enriching way.
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH FORK POPLAR SWAMP |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
89 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Meherrin River At Emporia
|
327cfs |
Nottoway River Near Stony Creek
|
302cfs |
Nottoway River Near Sebrell
|
396cfs |
Meherrin River Near Lawrenceville
|
238cfs |
Stony Creek Near Dinwiddie
|
32cfs |
Nottoway River Near Rawlings
|
157cfs |
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.
Horne Dam