Rakes Mill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Rakes Mill Dam in Floyd, Virginia, stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate considerations.


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Summary

With a height of 10 feet and a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, this dam serves a primary purpose that goes beyond flood control or irrigation. While its dam type is classified as "Other" and its hazard potential is undetermined, the dam's condition assessment remains unrated, leaving room for further evaluation and potential enhancement.

Located in the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Rakes Mill Dam's structural integrity and risk management measures are yet to be fully assessed. Despite its unknown hazard potential, the dam's emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk assessment remain pending, suggesting a need for proactive monitoring and response strategies. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the intricacies of Rakes Mill Dam present an opportunity for exploration and advocacy in enhancing the resilience of infrastructure against the backdrop of evolving environmental challenges.

With Congressman H. Morgan Griffith representing the area, there is potential for increased attention and support towards the assessment and management of Rakes Mill Dam. As the data on the dam continues to be updated and refined, there is a growing opportunity for collaboration between federal agencies, local authorities, and community stakeholders to ensure the sustainable and effective utilization of this critical water resource infrastructure in Floyd, Virginia.

Dam Height

10

Hydraulic Height

10

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

10

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

10
       
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.