Warren Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Warren is a captivating hydroelectric dam located in Warren, Virginia, just a stone's throw away from the Shenandoah River.


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Summary

This impressive structure, completed in 1924, stands at a height of 15 feet and boasts a hydraulic height of 18 feet. The dam stretches an impressive 514 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 900 acre-feet, with a surface area of 210 acres. Operated by a public utility, Warren serves as a vital source of renewable energy in the region, managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating, Warren is a crucial component of the local water resource infrastructure. Despite its age, the dam has stood the test of time and is regularly inspected to ensure its safety and reliability. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 470 feet, showcasing its robust design and engineering. In the event of an emergency, Warren is equipped with an Emergency Action Plan, last revised in November 2020, to ensure swift and coordinated response protocols.

Warren's significance extends beyond its hydroelectric capabilities, serving as a key landmark in the picturesque Shenandoah Shores Village. With its rich history, impressive design, and crucial role in water resource management, Warren stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of sustainable energy infrastructure in Virginia. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Warren offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of technology, nature, and innovation in the quest for a greener future.

Year Completed

1924

Dam Length

514

Dam Height

15

River Or Stream

Shenandoah

Primary Dam Type

Buttress

Surface Area

210

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

2678

Nid Storage

900

Structural Height

15

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

18
       
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.