Melody Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Located in Franklin, Virginia, Melody Lake Dam is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreation purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 41 feet with a length of 215 feet, this earthen dam creates a reservoir with a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet of water. The dam is situated on the Crooked Branch river and is under the regulatory oversight of the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia.

Despite being classified as "Undetermined" in terms of hazard potential and "Not Rated" in condition assessment, Melody Lake Dam has not undergone any recent modifications or inspections since September 2002. The emergency action plan status and risk assessment for the dam are also unclear, raising concerns about its current state of readiness in case of an unforeseen event. Nevertheless, the dam continues to provide a scenic and popular spot for recreational activities in the area.

With its picturesque location and important role in providing recreational opportunities, Melody Lake Dam stands as a key feature in the water resource infrastructure of Franklin, Virginia. However, there is a need for updated inspections, emergency preparedness plans, and risk assessments to ensure the safety and longevity of this dam for both visitors and the surrounding environment. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Melody Lake Dam offers a case study in the importance of proactive maintenance and monitoring to safeguard against potential risks and ensure sustainable water management practices.

Dam Length

215

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

CROOKED BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.5

Hydraulic Height

41

Drainage Area

0.78

Nid Storage

300

Structural Height

41

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

41
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.