Buffalo River Dam # 3
Key Takeaway
Buffalo River Dam # 3 is classified as high hazard in Virginia. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 | 60 ft (taller than 95.8% in VA) |
| Dam Length | 500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 374 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 41 acres |
| Drainage Area | 5 sq mi |
| NID ID | VA009011 |
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
Amherst County;Amherst County Department of Public Works
Local Government
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High Hazard 32 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Buffalo River Dam # 3?
Buffalo River Dam # 3 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 Buffalo River Dam # 3?
Buffalo River Dam # 3 is owned by Amherst County;Amherst County Department of Public Works (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
What is the primary purpose of Buffalo River Dam # 3?
Buffalo River Dam # 3 serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Buffalo River Dam # 3?
Buffalo River Dam # 3 has a dam height of 60 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 Buffalo River Dam # 3 last inspected?
Buffalo River Dam # 3 was last inspected on June 10, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.