Philpott Dam

SMITH RIVER· Franklin, Virginia· Built 1953· Gravity·
High Hazard Flood Risk Reduction Other Fish And Wildlife Pond Recreation Hydroelectric Water Supply Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Philpott Dam is classified as high hazard in Virginia. It was completed in 1953 and is 73 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 Length920 ft
Dam TypeGravity
Max Storage318.3K acre-ft
Normal Storage166.2K acre-ft
Surface Area2,880 acres
Drainage Area212 sq mi
Max Discharge70,000 cfs
Year Completed1953 (73 years old)
NID IDVA089001

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: August 17, 2023
State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Wilmington District

Federal Government

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Philpott Dam?

Philpott 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 Philpott Dam?

Philpott Dam is owned by USACE - Wilmington District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Philpott Dam built?

Philpott Dam was completed in 1953, making it 73 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 Philpott Dam?

Philpott Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Other, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation, Hydroelectric, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Philpott Dam last inspected?

Philpott Dam was last inspected on August 17, 2023. 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.