Falls Mill Dam

MUD FORK· Tazewell, Virginia· Rockfill· 22 ft tall
High Hazard Recreation Private

Key Takeaway

Falls Mill Dam is classified as high hazard in Virginia. 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 22 ft (taller than 34.1% in VA)
Dam Length445 ft
Dam TypeRockfill
Max Storage990 acre-ft
Normal Storage371 acre-ft
Surface Area96 acres
Drainage Area18 sq mi
NID IDVA185003

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: October 31, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Department of Conservation and Recreation

Ownership

Amelia Martin

Private

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Horton Dam

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Falls Mill Dam?

Falls Mill 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 Falls Mill Dam?

Falls Mill Dam is owned by Amelia Martin (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Falls Mill Dam?

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

How tall is Falls Mill Dam?

Falls Mill Dam has a dam height of 22 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 Falls Mill Dam last inspected?

Falls Mill Dam was last inspected on October 31, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

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.