John Lawrence Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

John Lawrence Dam, located in Bath, Virginia, is a privately owned structure designed by Balzer and Associates for water supply purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 36.2 feet with a length of 230 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 1050 acre-feet and serves as a vital resource for the surrounding area. It is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, ensuring its safety and compliance with state regulations.

With a primary purpose of water supply, the John Lawrence Dam also offers recreational opportunities for visitors to enjoy. Situated on the Indian Draft stream, the dam not only provides essential water resources but also supports outdoor activities in the area. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's condition is assessed as satisfactory as of July 2017, with regular inspections conducted to ensure its ongoing safety and functionality.

As a key infrastructure for water management in the region, John Lawrence Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining water supply and supporting recreational activities. Its design and construction reflect the importance of sustainable water resource management, while its regulatory oversight ensures the safety of the surrounding community. With its combination of practical utility and recreational value, the dam stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate-conscious infrastructure development.

Dam Length

230

Dam Height

36.2

River Or Stream

INDIAN DRAFT(Trib. of)

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

41

Hydraulic Height

36.2

Drainage Area

1.65

Nid Storage

1050

Structural Height

36.2

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

36
       
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.