Emporia
Key Takeaway
Emporia is classified as high hazard in Virginia. It was completed in 1908 and is 118 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. 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 | 38 ft (taller than 84.6% in VA) |
| Dam Length | 680 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 3.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 510 acres |
| Drainage Area | 747 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 40,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1908 (118 years old) |
| NID ID | VA081001 |
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
Emporia, City of
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of Emporia?
Emporia 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 Emporia?
Emporia is owned by Emporia, City of (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Emporia built?
Emporia was completed in 1908, making it 118 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 Emporia?
Emporia serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Emporia?
Emporia has a dam height of 38 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 Emporia last inspected?
Emporia was last inspected on February 1, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.