Deer Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Deer Lake Dam, also known as Blue Mountain Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Warren County, Virginia.


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Summary

The dam, primarily used for recreation, stands at a height of 38 feet and spans a length of 320 feet. It impounds the waters of the TR-Howardsville Branch, creating a surface area of 1.4 acres and a storage capacity of 23.7 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia and is subject to state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.

Despite its low hazard potential, Deer Lake Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. The last inspection of the dam was conducted in September 2006, with an inspection frequency of once per year. An Emergency Action Plan (EAP) was prepared for the dam in May 2003, but its adherence to guidelines and the existence of inundation maps remain unknown. The dam does not have any associated locks or spillways, and it is not under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Deer Lake Dam offers a unique opportunity for recreational activities while also serving as a vital water management infrastructure in Virginia. Its peaceful surroundings and serene waters provide a perfect backdrop for outdoor adventures, making it a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. With its state-regulated status and low hazard potential, Deer Lake Dam stands as a testament to responsible dam ownership and management in the region.

Dam Length

320

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

TR-Howardsville Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1.4

Hydraulic Height

38

Drainage Area

0.33

Nid Storage

23.7

Structural Height

38

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

38
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds