Philpott Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Philpott Dam, located in Virginia, is a crucial structure built by the US Army Corps of Engineers to reduce flood risks along the Smith River.


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Summary

Completed in 1953, this gravity dam stands at a height of 220 feet and has a storage capacity of 318,300 acre-feet. While the dam has performed well over the past 70 years, there are concerns about its ability to withstand extremely rare flood events due to concrete expansion issues. In the event of a catastrophic failure, floodwaters could reach as high as 30 feet in nearby areas, causing significant damage and posing a threat to residents downstream.

To manage these risks, the US Army Corps of Engineers closely monitors weather forecasts and stream gauges to predict inflow and outflow. They work in collaboration with the National Weather Service and other agencies to prepare for emergency response efforts and provide timely information to local emergency managers. Regular inspections and risk assessments are conducted, and plans for an advanced risk assessment study are in place to further mitigate potential hazards. The Emergency Action Plan has been updated, additional instrumentation installed, and monitoring frequency increased to enhance the dam's safety measures and response capabilities in case of an emergency.

Year Completed

1953

Dam Length

920

River Or Stream

SMITH RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

2880

Hydraulic Height

218

Drainage Area

212

Nid Storage

318300

Structural Height

220

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

220
       
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.