Belcher Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Carmon Bennett Dam Cobbs Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Belcher Dam, located in Franklin, Virginia, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
This earth-type dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a length of 275 feet, providing a storage capacity of 91.9 acre-feet with a normal storage level of 70.49 acre-feet. The dam's hazard potential is currently undetermined, and its condition assessment is marked as "Not Rated".
Despite its relatively small size, Belcher Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the area. Its location within the Wilmington District ensures that it is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam's presence helps to control water flow and storage, contributing to the overall management of the region's water resources.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Belcher Dam represents a tangible example of how private ownership can intersect with state oversight to manage vital water infrastructure. The dam's capacity and design reflect the balance between human intervention and natural systems, highlighting the importance of responsible stewardship in the face of changing climate conditions. As efforts to address water scarcity and climate resilience continue to evolve, structures like Belcher Dam serve as critical pieces of the puzzle in safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Dam Length |
275 |
Dam Height |
25 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.01 |
Hydraulic Height |
25 |
Nid Storage |
91.9 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Smith River At Bassett
|
101cfs |
Smith River Near Philpott
|
76cfs |
Smith River At Martinsville
|
149cfs |
Blackwater River Near Rocky Mount
|
56cfs |
Pigg River Near Sandy Level
|
112cfs |
North Mayo River Near Spencer
|
61cfs |
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.
Belcher Dam