Hughes Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hughes Dam, located in Halifax, Virginia, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 18 feet with a storage capacity of 50 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Despite its importance, the dam's hazard potential is currently undetermined, and its condition has not been rated, highlighting the need for further assessment and monitoring.

Operated and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Hughes Dam is subject to state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. While the dam's design and construction details remain unknown, its presence signifies the intricate network of water infrastructure across the state. With a surface area of 4.3 acres, the dam serves as a vital component in the local water management system, contributing to the sustainability of irrigation practices in the area.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricacies of Hughes Dam, its role in supporting agricultural activities and water supply becomes increasingly apparent. With its location in Halifax County, Virginia, the dam stands as a testament to human ingenuity in harnessing and managing water resources for the benefit of the community. As efforts continue to assess and maintain the dam's integrity, its significance in the broader context of water infrastructure in the region remains a focal point for sustainable development and resource management initiatives.

Dam Height

18

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.3

Hydraulic Height

18

Nid Storage

50

Structural Height

18

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

18
       
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.