Mullins Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Mullins Dam, located in Dickenson County, Virginia, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This earth dam, standing at a height of 51 feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes along the TRIB-POUND RIVER. With a storage capacity of 76 acre-feet and a surface area of 2.8 acres, Mullins Dam provides a serene landscape for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy.

Despite its low hazard potential, Mullins Dam has not been rated for its condition since its last inspection in August 2006. The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and inundation maps are also listed as unknown. Nonetheless, with its idyllic setting and contribution to local water resources, Mullins Dam remains a noteworthy site for those interested in the intersection of infrastructure, climate, and recreation in the region.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the impact of dams on local ecosystems and water management, Mullins Dam offers a case study in private ownership and state regulation. With its historic construction year unknown, the dam's design and purpose continue to shape the landscape near Dickenson, Virginia. While questions about its maintenance and emergency preparedness linger, Mullins Dam stands as a testament to the importance of balancing human needs with environmental stewardship in the face of climate change.

Dam Length

240

Dam Height

51

River Or Stream

TRIB-POUND RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2.8

Hydraulic Height

51

Drainage Area

0.04

Nid Storage

76

Structural Height

51

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

51
       
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.