Fries Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Fries Canal Embankment, located in Fries, Virginia, is a historic structure completed in 1902 for hydroelectric and navigation purposes along the New River.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet with a structural height of 33 feet and a length of 590 feet, providing a storage capacity of 345 acre-feet. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 100 feet and a maximum discharge of 2800 cubic feet per second, ensuring efficient water management in the region.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the Fries Canal Embankment is deemed to have a low hazard potential with a very high risk assessment score of 1. Despite the absence of available condition assessment data, the structure continues to serve its intended functions effectively. With its rich history and significant contribution to water resource management in the area, the Fries Canal Embankment stands as a testament to the importance of sustainable infrastructure for climate and water enthusiasts alike.

As a key piece of infrastructure in Grayson, Virginia, the Fries Canal Embankment represents a blend of historical significance and modern engineering, showcasing the intersection of water resource management and climate resilience. With its strategic location along the New River and its vital role in supporting hydroelectric operations, this earth dam serves as a valuable asset for the local community and highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring such critical structures for the long-term sustainability of water resources in the region.

Year Completed

1902

Dam Length

590

Dam Height

29

River Or Stream

New River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

80

Nid Storage

345

Structural Height

33

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

33
       
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.