Clifton Forge Dam
Key Takeaway
Clifton Forge Dam is classified as high hazard in Virginia. It was completed in 1949 and is 77 years old. Its primary use is water supply. 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 | 57 ft (taller than 95.3% in VA) |
| Dam Length | 183 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 323 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 118 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 11 acres |
| Drainage Area | 13 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1949 (77 years old) |
| NID ID | VA005003 |
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
Town of Clifton Forge;Town of Clifton Forge
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Clifton Forge Dam?
Clifton Forge 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 Clifton Forge Dam?
Clifton Forge Dam is owned by Town of Clifton Forge;Town of Clifton Forge (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Clifton Forge Dam built?
Clifton Forge Dam was completed in 1949, making it 77 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 Clifton Forge Dam?
Clifton Forge 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 Clifton Forge Dam?
Clifton Forge Dam has a dam height of 57 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 Clifton Forge Dam last inspected?
Clifton Forge Dam was last inspected on December 8, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.