Mellott Dam
Key Takeaway
Mellott Dam is classified as significant hazard in Virginia. It was completed in 1971 and is 55 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 17 ft (taller than 17.7% in VA) |
| Dam Length | 650 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 180 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 40 acre-ft |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1971 (55 years old) |
| NID ID | VA061018 |
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
Angela S. Smith and Mark S. Smith;Chistopher R. Pearson and Mikelyn D. Pearson;Jeffrey L. Wolf
Private
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What is the hazard classification of Mellott Dam?
Mellott Dam 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 Mellott Dam?
Mellott Dam is owned by Angela S. Smith and Mark S. Smith;Chistopher R. Pearson and Mikelyn D. Pearson;Jeffrey L. Wolf (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Mellott Dam built?
Mellott Dam was completed in 1971, making it 55 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 Mellott Dam?
Mellott 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 Mellott Dam?
Mellott Dam has a dam height of 17 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 Mellott Dam last inspected?
Mellott Dam was last inspected on October 4, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.