Lake Powhatan Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Powhatan 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 | 33 ft (taller than 76.7% in VA) |
| Dam Length | 175 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 160 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 77 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8 sq mi |
| NID ID | VA155006 |
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
Blue Ridge Mountain Council Boy Scouts of America
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Powhatan Dam?
Lake Powhatan 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 Lake Powhatan Dam?
Lake Powhatan Dam is owned by Blue Ridge Mountain Council Boy Scouts of America (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
What is the primary purpose of Lake Powhatan Dam?
Lake Powhatan 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 Lake Powhatan Dam?
Lake Powhatan Dam has a dam height of 33 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 Lake Powhatan Dam last inspected?
Lake Powhatan Dam was last inspected on August 27, 2015. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.