Leatherwood Creek Dam #3 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Leatherwood Creek Dam #3, also known as Finney Dam, is a vital structure located in Henry County, Virginia, that serves as a key component in flood risk reduction along the W.F.
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Summary
Leatherwood Creek. Built in 1964, this earth dam stands at a height of 41 feet and spans 407 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 2400 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is in fair condition according to a 2019 assessment, with a high hazard potential due to its location and purpose.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Leatherwood Creek Dam #3 is subject to state regulations, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness in flood control. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, and it plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation during periods of high water flow. With a drainage area of 10.2 square miles and a surface area of 35.3 acres, the dam is a significant asset in managing water resources in the region.
Local government ownership and oversight, combined with state regulatory agency involvement, demonstrate a collaborative approach to maintaining the integrity of Leatherwood Creek Dam #3. As climate change continues to impact weather patterns and increase the frequency of extreme events, the importance of well-maintained infrastructure like this dam becomes even more pronounced for ensuring the resilience of communities and ecosystems in the face of water-related challenges.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
407 |
Dam Height |
41 |
River Or Stream |
W.F.LEATHERWOOD CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
35.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
41 |
Drainage Area |
10.2 |
Nid Storage |
2400 |
Structural Height |
41 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
41 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Smith River At Martinsville
|
149cfs |
Smith River At Bassett
|
101cfs |
Smith River Near Philpott
|
76cfs |
Smith River At Eden
|
222cfs |
North Mayo River Near Spencer
|
61cfs |
Sandy River Near Danville
|
41cfs |
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.
Leatherwood Creek Dam #3