Penola East Six Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Penola East Six Dam, located in Caroline County, Virginia, is a state-regulated structure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
The dam, with a height of 27 feet and a length of 500 feet, was primarily built for recreational purposes. It has a storage capacity of 248 acre-feet and sits along a tributary of the Mattaponi River.
Despite being classified as having an undetermined hazard potential and not yet rated for condition assessment, Penola East Six Dam is subject to regular state inspections, enforcement, and permitting. The dam, constructed with earth materials, is overseen by the Baltimore District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. While its emergency action plan status and risk assessment remain unclear, the dam's location and design suggest a commitment to water resource management and safety.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Penola East Six Dam offers a fascinating study in dam infrastructure and its role in supporting recreational activities while also emphasizing the importance of regulatory oversight and emergency preparedness. As efforts continue to assess and mitigate potential risks associated with the dam, its presence along the Mattaponi River tributary serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness between water resources, infrastructure, and environmental stewardship in Virginia.
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
27 |
River Or Stream |
trib. Mattaponi R |
Hydraulic Height |
27 |
Nid Storage |
248 |
Structural Height |
27 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
27 |
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 Six Dam