Mays Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Mays Dam, located in Virginia along the Sneads Run river, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
Standing at 24 feet high and 300 feet long, this earth dam provides a storage capacity of 168 acre-feet and covers an area of 11 acres. Despite being regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the condition of Mays Dam remains unassessed and its hazard potential is undetermined.
Although the dam has not been inspected since February 1992, it is equipped with an emergency action plan (EAP) to ensure preparedness for any potential risks. With a yearly inspection frequency, Mays Dam's safety and integrity are continuously monitored to prevent any potential hazards. Despite the lack of recent assessment information, its location and purpose as a recreational dam highlight the importance of maintaining and monitoring water resources in the face of climate change challenges.
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
24 |
River Or Stream |
SNEADS RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
168 |
Structural Height |
24 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
24 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Oronoco
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Otter Creek Recreation Area
|
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Otter Creek - Blue Ridge Parkway
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Mays Dam