Brookneal Dam

Unnamed tributary to Falling River - VAHU6 RU71 Falling River - Hat Creek - Phelps Creek· Campbell, Virginia· Built 1963· Earth· 52 ft tall
Significant Hazard Water Supply Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Brookneal Dam is classified as significant hazard in Virginia. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 52 ft (taller than 93.9% in VA)
Dam Length280 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage689 acre-ft
Normal Storage350 acre-ft
Surface Area15 acres
Drainage Area4 sq mi
Year Completed1963 (63 years old)
NID IDVA031006

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Department of Conservation and Recreation

Ownership

Town of Brookneal Department of Public Utilities

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Brookneal Dam?

Brookneal Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Brookneal Dam?

Brookneal Dam is owned by Town of Brookneal Department of Public Utilities (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Brookneal Dam built?

Brookneal Dam was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Brookneal Dam?

Brookneal Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Brookneal Dam?

Brookneal Dam has a dam height of 52 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.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.