Lake Prince Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Izaak Walton Dam Western Branch Dam
Last Updated: December 20, 2025
Lake Prince Dam, located in Suffolk, Virginia, is a vital structure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at 28 feet tall and stretching 2000 feet long, serves as a key component in the Western Branch of Nansemond River's water supply system. With a maximum storage capacity of 15,100 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 11,350 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in ensuring a reliable water source for the surrounding region.
Despite its fair condition assessment and low hazard potential, Lake Prince Dam undergoes regular inspections, with the most recent one conducted in August 2019. The dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status is currently not available, highlighting the need for continued preparedness and adherence to safety guidelines. While there are no associated structures or locks, the dam's importance for water supply purposes cannot be understated, making it a significant feature in the region's water resource management and climate resilience efforts.
With its strategic location and role in water supply management, Lake Prince Dam stands as a testament to the careful regulation and maintenance of crucial infrastructure in safeguarding water resources. As climate change impacts continue to pose challenges to water availability, the dam's operational status and adherence to regulatory standards are essential in ensuring the resilience of the surrounding communities. As efforts to enhance emergency preparedness and risk management measures evolve, Lake Prince Dam remains a key player in the sustainable utilization of water resources in the region.
Dam Length |
2000 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
Western Branch of Nansemond River - VAHU6 JL47 Western Branch Reservoir |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
760 |
Drainage Area |
29.75 |
Nid Storage |
15100 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
28 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Blackwater River Near Franklin
|
256cfs |
Blackwater River Near Dendron
|
132cfs |
Nottoway River Near Sebrell
|
328cfs |
Pasquotank River Near South Mills
|
64cfs |
Potecasi Creek Near Union
|
12cfs |
Ahoskie Creek At Ahoskie
|
15cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Lake Prince Dam
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