Ray Development Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Ray Development Dam, located in Franklin City, Virginia, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This earth-type dam stands at 18 feet high and serves primarily for recreation purposes, with a storage capacity of 71.7 acre-feet. Situated on the TR-Blackwater River, the dam has not been rated for hazard potential and its condition remains undetermined as of the last inspection in April 2019.

Despite its modest height, Ray Development Dam plays a crucial role in flood risk reduction and provides recreational opportunities for the local community. Owned and maintained by a private entity, the dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement. The dam's location at the confluence of the Blackwater River adds to its scenic appeal and enhances its value as a recreational asset for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

With its strategic location and modest yet important role in water resource management, Ray Development Dam stands as a symbol of responsible private ownership and collaboration with state regulatory agencies. As climate change impacts water resources, dams like Ray Development Dam become increasingly significant for both flood control and recreational purposes, highlighting the importance of sustainable infrastructure development in the face of evolving environmental challenges.

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

TR-BLACKWATER RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

71.7

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

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.