Pintler Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Pintler Dam, also known as Spencer Mill Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Henry, Virginia.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 31.5 feet and has a primary purpose of recreation, providing a storage capacity of 74 acre-feet. Situated within the jurisdiction of the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state of Virginia, ensuring its safety and compliance with standards.

With a low hazard potential and a condition assessment that is currently not rated, Pintler Dam offers recreational opportunities in a scenic setting. The dam's last inspection took place in February 2015, with a regular inspection frequency to monitor its integrity. While specific details on the spillway type and outlet gates are not provided, the dam serves its purpose of recreation for visitors in the area, offering a surface area of 5.4 acres and a drainage area of 0.26 square miles.

Located within the Huntington District of Virginia, Pintler Dam contributes to the local landscape and provides a source of enjoyment for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As a privately-owned structure, it exemplifies the importance of proper regulation and inspection to ensure the safety of both the dam and the surrounding environment. Its storage capacity, surface area, and recreational opportunities make it a valuable asset within the state's water resource infrastructure.

Dam Length

300

Dam Height

31.5

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.4

Hydraulic Height

31.5

Drainage Area

0.26

Nid Storage

74

Structural Height

31.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

32
       
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.