Wilcox Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wilcox Dam, also known as Lee Memorial Park Lake, is a local government-owned structure located in Petersburg, Virginia.


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Summary

This earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes and is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in the state. With a height of 18 feet and a storage capacity of 200.29 acre-feet, the dam sits on an unnamed tributary to Lieutenant Run in the Appomattox River watershed.

Despite its important role in providing recreational opportunities, Wilcox Dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed as being in poor condition as of November 2018. The dam has not been modified or inspected since then, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. While the dam's emergency action plan has been prepared and last revised in October 2020, there is room for improvement in terms of adherence to guidelines and risk assessment measures.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wilcox Dam represents a critical piece of infrastructure in the local watershed, with implications for both water management and public safety. As efforts continue to ensure the dam's structural integrity and emergency preparedness, stakeholders are reminded of the importance of proactive maintenance and risk management practices to safeguard the surrounding community and environment from potential hazards.

Dam Length

430

Dam Height

18

River Or Stream

Unnamed tributary to Lieutenant Run - VAHU6 JA40 Appomattox River - Old Town Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

18

Drainage Area

2.09

Nid Storage

200.29

Hazard Potential

High

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.