Penola West One Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Penola West One Dam, located in Caroline, Virginia, is a state-regulated structure on a tributary of Polecat Creek.
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Summary
This earthen dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a storage capacity of 321 acre-feet. While the primary purpose of the dam is not specified, it is designed to withstand hydraulic pressures and has not been rated for condition assessment.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Penola West One Dam's hazard potential is currently undetermined, with no emergency action plan in place. The dam has not been inspected or assessed for risk management measures, highlighting potential safety concerns that may need to be addressed in the future. With its location in a picturesque setting, this dam presents an intriguing case for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the maintenance and regulation of such structures.
Despite its lack of recent evaluations and assessments, Penola West One Dam serves as an important infrastructure for water storage and flow control in the region. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the need for regular inspection and maintenance of such dams becomes increasingly vital to ensure the safety and sustainability of surrounding communities. This dam's story is a reminder of the ongoing challenges and responsibilities associated with managing water resources in a changing climate.
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
trib. Polecat Creek |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Nid Storage |
321 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Penola West One Dam