Buck Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Buck is a historic hydroelectric dam located in Austinville, Virginia, along the picturesque New River.


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Summary

Built in 1912, this gravity-type dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 708 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is hydroelectric power generation, with the added benefit of providing recreational opportunities in the surrounding area.

Managed by a public utility, Buck Dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) and has a high hazard potential due to its location and structural characteristics. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 937 feet, ensuring the safe release of excess water. Despite its age, the dam's risk assessment remains at a very high level, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and functionality.

With its rich history, scenic location, and important role in providing renewable energy, Buck Dam serves as a valuable asset to the community and a prime example of sustainable water resource management in Virginia. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, we can appreciate the significance of dams like Buck in meeting the dual goals of energy production and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1912

Dam Length

1340

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

New River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

68

Hydraulic Height

42.5

Drainage Area

1320

Nid Storage

708

Structural Height

45

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 6

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

45
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.