West Pond Dam

Giles, Virginia· Earth· 41 ft tall

High Hazard Other Public Utility

Key Takeaway

West Pond Dam is classified as high hazard in Virginia. Its primary use is other. 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	41 ft (taller than 87.7% in VA)
Dam Length	800 ft
Dam Type	Earth
Max Storage	30 acre-ft
Normal Storage	15 acre-ft

Surface Area	2 acres
Drainage Area	0 sq mi
NID ID	VA071008

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 23, 2022

State Regulated: Yes

Regulatory Agency: Department of Conservation and Recreation

Ownership

AEP;American Electric Power

Public Utility

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of West Pond Dam?

West Pond 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 West Pond Dam?

West Pond Dam is owned by AEP;American Electric Power (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of West Pond Dam?

West Pond Dam serves the following purposes: Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is West Pond Dam?

West Pond Dam has a dam height of 41 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 West Pond Dam last inspected?

West Pond Dam was last inspected on August 23, 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.