Halifax
Key Takeaway
Halifax is classified as significant hazard in Virginia. It was completed in 1921 and is 105 years old. Its primary use is hydroelectric. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 30 ft (taller than 67.7% in VA) |
| Dam Length | 669 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 3.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 400 acres |
| Drainage Area | 514 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 40,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1921 (105 years old) |
| NID ID | VA083001 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Banister Hydro, Inc.
Private
Nearby Dams
Mcghaulin & Mays Dam
Halifax, VA
Unknown 23 ftCliborne Dam
Halifax, VA
Unknown 27 ftTalbot Dam
Halifax, VA
Unknown 22 ftJ E Edmunds Dam
Halifax, VA
Unknown 18 ftEdmunds Dam #3
Halifax, VA
Unknown 20 ftFounders Land Speculators Dam
Halifax, VA
Unknown 16 ftCage Dam
Halifax, VA
Unknown 24 ftPowell Farm Dam
Halifax, VA
Unknown 27 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Halifax?
Halifax is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Halifax?
Halifax is owned by Banister Hydro, Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Halifax built?
Halifax was completed in 1921, making it 105 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 Halifax?
Halifax serves the following purposes: Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Halifax?
Halifax has a dam height of 30 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 Halifax last inspected?
Halifax was last inspected on February 1, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.