Big Island
Key Takeaway
Big Island is classified as low hazard in Virginia. It was completed in 1850 and is 176 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 15 ft (taller than 11.8% in VA) |
| Dam Length | 657 ft |
| Dam Type | Stone |
| Max Storage | 550 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 550 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 110 acres |
| Drainage Area | 3,100 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1850 (176 years old) |
| NID ID | VA009002 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
GP Big Island, LLC
Private
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Unknown 26 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Island?
Big Island is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Big Island?
Big Island is owned by GP Big Island, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Island built?
Big Island was completed in 1850, making it 176 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Big Island?
Big Island serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Big Island?
Big Island has a dam height of 15 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Big Island last inspected?
Big Island was last inspected on June 26, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.