Lake John Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake John Dam, located in Warren County, Virginia, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

The dam, standing at a height of 28 feet with a length of 335 feet, creates a reservoir with a storage capacity of 235 acre-feet. The dam is situated on Molly Booth Run, within the jurisdiction of the Department of Conservation and Recreation, ensuring regulatory oversight and periodic inspections to uphold safety standards.

Despite being classified as an Earth dam, Lake John Dam's hazard potential and condition assessment remain undetermined and not rated, respectively. The last inspection in 2014 indicated a satisfactory condition, but the lack of recent data raises questions about the current state of the structure. With a drainage area of 4.22 square miles and a surface area of 13 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.

Enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate in the area should take note of Lake John Dam's significance in the local irrigation system and its role in supporting agricultural activities. As a privately owned structure subject to state regulation, understanding the dam's condition and maintenance practices is essential for ensuring its continued functionality and the safety of surrounding communities. Further assessment and monitoring of the dam's integrity are recommended to address any potential risks and maintain the resilience of this vital water management infrastructure in Warren County, Virginia.

Dam Length

335

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

Molly Booth Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

13

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

4.22

Nid Storage

235

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

28
       
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.