Upper Blackwater River Dam #4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Upper Blackwater River Dam #4, also known as Dillon Dam or Emma's Pond Dam, is a local government-owned structure in Franklin, Virginia, designed by the Virginia DCR - Division of Soil and Water Conservation.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam, constructed for flood risk reduction, is an earth-type dam standing at a height of 52 feet and a length of 540 feet, with a storage capacity of 338 acre-feet and a normal storage of 65 acre-feet. Situated on the tributary of North Fork Blackwater River, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.
Despite its fair condition assessment as of July 2019, Upper Blackwater River Dam #4 poses a high hazard potential, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The dam is regulated and permitted by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, ensuring that it meets safety standards and is in compliance with state regulations. Its location at the juncture of Franklin County and Virginia underscores its significance in protecting the surrounding communities from potential flooding events.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the role of Upper Blackwater River Dam #4 in mitigating flood risks and managing water flow in the region. Its structural design, storage capacity, and regulatory oversight make it a key infrastructure for safeguarding the local environment and residents. As efforts continue to ensure its safety and effectiveness, the dam stands as a crucial asset in preserving the balance of water resources and climate resilience in Franklin, Virginia.
Dam Length |
540 |
Dam Height |
52 |
River Or Stream |
TRIB-N.F.BLACKWATER RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
52 |
Drainage Area |
1.9 |
Nid Storage |
338 |
Structural Height |
52 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
52 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Blackwater River Near Rocky Mount
|
56cfs |
S F Roanoke River Near Shawsville
|
37cfs |
Roanoke River At Roanoke
|
77cfs |
Back Creek Near Dundee
|
19cfs |
Roanoke River At Glenvar
|
71cfs |
Roanoke River At Lafayette
|
71cfs |
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.
Upper Blackwater River Dam #4