Fields Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Fields Dam, also known as Big Shoals, is a private dam located in Grayson, Virginia, along the New River.


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Summary

This gravity dam, standing at 14 feet tall, serves a primary purpose of hydroelectric power generation with a storage capacity of 2,000 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, ensuring proper inspection, permitting, and enforcement measures are in place.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Fields Dam has not been rated for its condition since its last inspection in 2004. The dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, but it meets state regulatory requirements for inspection and maintenance. The dam's location and purpose make it a crucial infrastructure for water resource management and climate adaptation efforts in the region, as it contributes to the stability of the local hydroelectric power supply and water storage capacity.

In the realm of water resource and climate enthusiasts, Fields Dam serves as a notable example of private infrastructure playing a vital role in sustainable energy production and water management. The dam's presence on the New River highlights the intersection of human engineering with natural resources, showcasing the importance of proper regulation and maintenance to ensure the safety and functionality of such structures in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

NEW RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Hydraulic Height

14

Drainage Area

250

Nid Storage

2000

Structural Height

14

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

14
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.