Purkins Hoa Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Purkins Hoa Dam, located in Essex, Virginia, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This dam stands at a height of 17.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 146.65 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 77.76 acre-feet. The dam spans 400 feet in length and covers a surface area of 14.4 acres.

While the hazard potential of Purkins Hoa Dam is currently classified as 'Undetermined', its condition assessment is marked as 'Not Rated'. Despite the lack of specific details on its construction year and purposes, this dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement, ensuring its safety and compliance with standards. The presence of emergency action plans and regular inspections further indicate a commitment to maintaining the integrity of this water resource structure.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Purkins Hoa Dam serves as a noteworthy example of private ownership within the realm of dam infrastructure. Its location in Essex, Virginia, and association with the Norfolk District highlight its significance in the regional water management system. With its storage capacity and structural specifications, this dam contributes to the effective utilization and conservation of water resources in the area, showcasing the intersection of human engineering and environmental stewardship in sustaining vital water supplies.

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

17.5

Surface Area

14.4

Hydraulic Height

17.5

Nid Storage

146.65

Structural Height

17.5

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

18
       
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.