Hamelt Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Hamelt Dam, located in Henry County, Virginia, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for irrigation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Standing at a height of 27 feet and stretching 230 feet in length, this dam has a storage capacity of 54 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 42 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement processes in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

Despite its relatively small size, Hamelt Dam plays a crucial role in supporting local agriculture by providing water for irrigation purposes. The dam's hazard potential is currently classified as "Undetermined," with its condition yet to be formally assessed. While the dam has not been rated for its condition, regular inspections are conducted to monitor its structural integrity and address any maintenance needs to prevent potential risks.

As a key water resource structure in the region, Hamelt Dam represents an important component of the local water management system. Its presence underscores the significance of effective dam regulation and maintenance practices to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the area. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hamelt Dam offers a fascinating example of the intersection between infrastructure, regulation, and environmental stewardship in managing water for agricultural purposes.

Dam Length

230

Dam Height

27

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.6

Hydraulic Height

27

Nid Storage

54

Structural Height

27

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

27
       
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.