Penniston Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wrights Millpond Dam Purkins Hoa Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Penniston Dam, located in Essex, Virginia, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 17.25 feet and with a storage capacity of 62.51 acre-feet, this dam serves multiple purposes including water storage and flood control for the region. Despite being marked as "Undetermined" in terms of hazard potential and "Not Rated" in condition assessment, Penniston Dam is subject to regular state inspections and enforcement to ensure its safety and reliability.
With a hydraulic height matching its structural height at 17.25 feet, Penniston Dam spans 250 feet in length and covers a surface area of 6.7 acres. Although the dam's completion year and specific design details are not specified, its normal storage capacity of 38.86 acre-feet suggests a significant contribution to water resource management in the area. As a vital component of the local water infrastructure, Penniston Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance and supporting the surrounding community's needs for water supply and protection against potential flooding events.
Despite lacking a detailed risk assessment and emergency action plan, Penniston Dam remains a key feature in the Norfolk District's water management system. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure resilience becomes more critical, ongoing monitoring and maintenance of dams like Penniston are essential to ensure their continued operation and safety. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role of structures like Penniston Dam in safeguarding our environment and communities is crucial for fostering sustainable water management practices and adapting to the challenges of a changing climate.
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
17.25 |
Surface Area |
6.7 |
Hydraulic Height |
17.25 |
Nid Storage |
62.51 |
Structural Height |
17.25 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
17 |
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.
Penniston Dam