Johnson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Johnson Dam, located in Sussex, Virginia, is a vital water resource infrastructure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at a height of 13 feet, serves primarily for irrigation purposes along the TR-JOSEPHS SWAMP. With a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in water management in the region.

Despite its significance, the condition of Johnson Dam remains unrated as of its last assessment in March 2009. The hazard potential is also undetermined, highlighting the need for further evaluation and potential risk management measures. With state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place, the dam continues to be monitored to ensure its safety and functionality for the surrounding community.

As climate change continues to impact water resources, Johnson Dam stands as a critical structure in maintaining water supply and irrigation needs in the area. With its strategic location and purpose, efforts to assess and manage any potential risks associated with the dam are essential to safeguarding the community and the environment for the future.

Dam Height

13

River Or Stream

TR-JOSEPHS SWAMP

Hydraulic Height

13

Nid Storage

52

Structural Height

13

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

13
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.