Speights Run Dam

Speights Run - VAHU6 JL 44 Lake Kelby - Speights Run· Suffolk, Virginia· Earth· 26 ft tall

High Hazard Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Speights Run Dam is classified as high hazard in Virginia. Its primary use is water supply. 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	26 ft (taller than 51.6% in VA)
Dam Length	650 ft
Dam Type	Earth
Max Storage	4.0K acre-ft
Normal Storage	479 acre-ft

Surface Area	197 acres
Drainage Area	13 sq mi
NID ID	VA800010

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: May 10, 2022

State Regulated: Yes

Regulatory Agency: Department of Conservation and Recreation

Ownership

City of Portsmouth Department of Public Utilities

Local Government

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Speights Run Dam?

Speights Run 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 Speights Run Dam?

Speights Run Dam is owned by City of Portsmouth Department of Public Utilities (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Speights Run Dam?

Speights Run Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Speights Run Dam?

Speights Run Dam has a dam height of 26 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 Speights Run Dam last inspected?

Speights Run Dam was last inspected on May 10, 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.