Penola East Five Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Penola East Five Dam, located in Caroline, Virginia, is a state-regulated structure that serves the primary purpose of recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 23 feet, this Earth dam provides a storage capacity of 147 acre-feet. Situated on a tributary of the Mattaponi River, the dam falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia.
Although the hazard potential and condition assessment of Penola East Five Dam are currently classified as undetermined and not rated, respectively, the structure undergoes regular inspections with a frequency of once per year. Despite lacking certain data such as the year of completion and last inspection date, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures remain unspecified. However, it is worth noting that the dam does not fall under the ownership or funding of any federal agency.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the Penola East Five Dam may find its recreational purpose and state-regulated status intriguing. With its location in the Baltimore District and proximity to the Mattaponi River, this Earth dam offers a modest storage capacity and stands as a notable feature in the water management landscape of Virginia. While some details regarding its maintenance and risk assessment may be pending, the dam's role in providing recreational opportunities and its regulatory oversight by the Department of Conservation and Recreation make it a noteworthy structure for further exploration and study.
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
trib. Mattaponi R |
Hydraulic Height |
23 |
Nid Storage |
147 |
Structural Height |
23 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
23 |
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 East Five Dam