Breckinridge Dam
Key Takeaway
Breckinridge Dam is classified as high hazard in Virginia. It was completed in 1940 and is 86 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 58 ft (taller than 95.5% in VA) |
| Dam Length | 290 ft |
| Dam Type | Concrete |
| Max Storage | 1.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 730 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 55 acres |
| Drainage Area | 18 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 5,670 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1940 (86 years old) |
| Year Modified | 1997 |
| NID ID | VA179003 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
DOD USMC
Federal Government
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High Hazard 140 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Breckinridge Dam?
Breckinridge Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Breckinridge Dam?
Breckinridge Dam is owned by DOD USMC (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Breckinridge Dam built?
Breckinridge Dam was completed in 1940, making it 86 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 Breckinridge Dam?
Breckinridge Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Breckinridge Dam?
Breckinridge Dam has a dam height of 58 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 Breckinridge Dam last inspected?
Breckinridge Dam was last inspected on June 11, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.