Fries

New River· Grayson, Virginia· Built 1902· Gravity· 40 ft tall

High Hazard Hydroelectric Navigation Private

Key Takeaway

Fries is classified as high hazard in Virginia. It was completed in 1902 and is 124 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	40 ft (taller than 86.6% in VA)
Dam Length	610 ft
Dam Type	Gravity
Max Storage	345 acre-ft
Normal Storage	345 acre-ft

Surface Area	80 acres
Drainage Area	1,140 sq mi
Max Discharge	93,945 cfs
Year Completed	1902 (124 years old)
NID ID	VA077002

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: June 7, 2022

State Regulated: No

Ownership

Aquenergy Systems, LLC

Private

Nearby Dams

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Byllesby

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Buck

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Russell Dam

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Paul Riefenberg Dam

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Isom Dam

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Joann Arey Dam

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Shateley Dam

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Fries?

Fries 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 Fries?

Fries is owned by Aquenergy Systems, LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Fries built?

Fries was completed in 1902, making it 124 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 Fries?

Fries serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric, Navigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Fries?

Fries has a dam height of 40 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 Fries last inspected?

Fries was last inspected on June 7, 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.