Sunlight Prop Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sunlight Prop Dam, located in Warren, Virginia, is a privately owned structure that is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This dam stands at a height of 17 feet and has a storage capacity of 66.91 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 42.71 acre-feet. With a length of 265 feet and a surface area of 7.91 acres, Sunlight Prop Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its undetermined hazard potential and lack of a condition rating, Sunlight Prop Dam is inspected regularly to ensure its safety and functionality. While the dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment details are yet to be determined, the structure meets state regulatory requirements for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. With its location in the Norfolk District and oversight by the Virginia state agency, Sunlight Prop Dam serves as a vital component in the water management infrastructure of the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sunlight Prop Dam presents an intriguing case study in private ownership and state regulation of critical water infrastructure. With its modest dimensions but significant storage capacity, this dam exemplifies the importance of maintaining and monitoring such structures to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region. As efforts continue to assess and manage the potential risks associated with the dam, its role in water management and conservation remains paramount in the ongoing dialogue around sustainable water resource management and climate resilience.

Dam Length

265

Dam Height

17

Surface Area

7.91

Hydraulic Height

17

Nid Storage

66.91

Structural Height

17

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

17
       
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.