Niagara

Roanoke· Roanoke, Virginia· Built 1906· Gravity· 52 ft tall

High Hazard Hydroelectric Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Niagara is classified as high hazard in Virginia. It was completed in 1906 and is 120 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	52 ft (taller than 93.9% in VA)
Dam Length	452 ft
Dam Type	Gravity
Max Storage	425 acre-ft
Normal Storage	425 acre-ft

Surface Area	76 acres
Drainage Area	511 sq mi
Max Discharge	60,000 cfs
Year Completed	1906 (120 years old)
NID ID	VA161001

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

Appalachian Power Company

Public Utility

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Niagara?

Niagara 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 Niagara?

Niagara is owned by Appalachian Power Company (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Niagara built?

Niagara was completed in 1906, making it 120 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 Niagara?

Niagara 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 Niagara?

Niagara has a dam height of 52 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 Niagara last inspected?

Niagara 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.