Game Reserve Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Johnson Dam Nebletts Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Game Reserve Dam, also known as Game Refuge Lake, is a state-owned structure located in Sussex, Virginia.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes, with a storage capacity of 106 acre-feet. The dam is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Situated on the Dobie Swamp River, Game Reserve Dam offers a tranquil setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. While the hazard potential and condition assessment of the dam are currently undetermined and not rated, regular inspections are conducted to monitor its safety and integrity. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures are also under ongoing evaluation.
As a key feature in the Norfolk District, Game Reserve Dam provides both recreational opportunities and essential water resource management functions in the area. With a focus on public safety and environmental conservation, the dam serves as a valuable asset for the community while contributing to the overall sustainability of the region's water resources and climate resilience efforts.
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
DOBIE SWAMP |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Nid Storage |
106 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nottoway River Near Stony Creek
|
302cfs |
Appomattox River At Matoaca
|
498cfs |
Nottoway River Near Sebrell
|
396cfs |
Blackwater River Near Dendron
|
137cfs |
Stony Creek Near Dinwiddie
|
32cfs |
Blackwater River Near Franklin
|
242cfs |
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.
Game Reserve Dam