The Fries Canal Embankment, located in Fries, Virginia, is a historic structure completed in 1902 for hydroelectric and navigation purposes along the New River.
Wind
Humidity
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 |
New River Near Galax
|
861cfs |
Chestnut Creek At Galax
|
33cfs |
New River At Ivanhoe
|
1170cfs |
Reed Creek At Grahams Forge
|
64cfs |
New River At Allisonia
|
1600cfs |
Mitchell River Near State Road
|
57cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Cliffview campground
|
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Sunrise Cabin
|
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Raven Cliff Campground
|
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Raven Cliff
|
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Raven Cliff Recreation Area
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