Clifton Forge Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Clifton Forge Dam, located in Alleghany, Virginia, is a gravity dam constructed in 1949 primarily for water supply purposes.


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Summary

Designed by Gannett Fleming, Inc., this dam stands at a height of 52 feet and has a length of 265 feet, with a storage capacity of 318 acre-feet. Situated on the Smith Creek river, the dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, ensuring that it meets state inspection and enforcement requirements.

With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2020, Clifton Forge Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. The dam's normal storage capacity of 160 acre-feet serves the surrounding area, while its location on the Smith Creek river contributes to a drainage area of 12.53 square miles. Despite its age, the dam continues to meet regulatory standards, highlighting its importance in maintaining water supply infrastructure in Virginia.

The presence of Clifton Forge Dam underscores the significance of sustainable water resource management in the face of climate change. As a key structure in the region, it serves as a vital source of water supply while also posing challenges in terms of hazard potential. With regular inspections and satisfactory condition assessments, the dam stands as a testament to effective infrastructure management in ensuring the safety and security of water resources in Alleghany, Virginia.

Year Completed

1949

Dam Length

265

Dam Height

52

River Or Stream

SMITH CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

11

Hydraulic Height

52

Drainage Area

12.53

Nid Storage

318

Structural Height

52

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

52
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.