Emporia Reservoir Report
Nearby: Tailings Dam # 104 Slagles Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Emporia is a captivating hydroelectric dam located in Emporia, Virginia, along the Meherrin River.
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Summary
Built in 1908, this gravity dam stands at a height of 38.25 feet and has a structural height of 43 feet, providing a maximum storage capacity of 3800 acre-feet of water. With a surface area of 510 acres and a drainage area of 747 square miles, Emporia serves multiple purposes including fish and wildlife pond, hydroelectric power generation, and water supply.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Emporia boasts a spillway width of 462 feet and a maximum discharge of 40,000 cubic feet per second. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam has not been assessed for its current condition. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, Emporia presents a blend of historical significance and environmental impact. As a key component of the water resource infrastructure in Virginia, Emporia stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and natural forces.
Year Completed |
1908 |
Dam Length |
680 |
Dam Height |
38.25 |
River Or Stream |
Meherrin |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
510 |
Hydraulic Height |
42 |
Drainage Area |
747 |
Nid Storage |
3800 |
Structural Height |
43 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
43 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Meherrin River At Emporia
|
327cfs |
Meherrin River Near Lawrenceville
|
238cfs |
Nottoway River Near Stony Creek
|
302cfs |
Roanoke River At Roanoke Rapids
|
2810cfs |
Nottoway River Near Sebrell
|
396cfs |
Nottoway River Near Rawlings
|
157cfs |
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.
Emporia