Pond Lick Branch Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pond Lick Branch Dam, also known as Mountain Lake, is a private-owned earth dam located in Alleghany, Virginia.


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Summary

The dam primarily serves as a recreational site, offering a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore. With a height of 29 feet and a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 2 acres and is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia.

Despite being categorized as having a low hazard potential, Pond Lick Branch Dam has not been rated for its condition, with the last assessment date unknown. Emergency action plans have been prepared for the dam, meeting guidelines as of April 2011. The dam's location in the Huntington District and its association with the POND LICK BRANCH river or stream make it a unique destination for those interested in water resource management and climate conservation efforts in the region.

Overall, Pond Lick Branch Dam presents a captivating opportunity for water resource and climate enthusiasts to engage with a privately-owned recreational site in Virginia. As a vital part of the state's regulatory framework, the dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of infrastructure management, environmental stewardship, and public safety. With its serene surroundings and potential for exploration, Pond Lick Branch Dam is a fascinating site for those interested in the intersection of water resources, climate change, and conservation efforts in the region.

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

POND LICK BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

29

Nid Storage

20

Structural Height

29

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

29
       
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.