Blanken Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ridgetop Dam Drew Smith Lake Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Blanken Dam, located in Lee, Virginia, stands as a crucial water resource management infrastructure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
With a height of 29 feet and a storage capacity of 99.76 acre-feet, this dam plays a vital role in regulating water flow and storage in the region. Despite being labeled as "Undetermined" in terms of hazard potential and "Not Rated" in condition assessment, the dam is subject to regular inspections and enforcement to ensure its structural integrity and functionality.
The dam's primary purpose and specific design details are not provided in the data, but its presence signifies the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in Virginia. Situated at a latitude of 36.6655 and longitude of -83.0794, Blanken Dam serves as a significant landmark in the region, impacting not just water flow but also the surrounding ecosystem and community. As part of the Huntington and Louisville Districts, the dam's management involves various federal and state agencies, highlighting the collaborative efforts in maintaining water infrastructure.
While specific information such as the dam's construction year, spillway type, and associated structures is lacking, Blanken Dam's significance lies in its role as a water storage and regulation mechanism in Virginia. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of such infrastructure sheds light on the complexities of managing water resources for sustainable development and environmental protection. Moving forward, continued monitoring and maintenance of Blanken Dam will be essential to ensure its long-term functionality and resilience in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Dam Height |
29 |
Surface Area |
5.01 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Nid Storage |
99.76 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Powell River Near Jonesville
|
548cfs |
Clinch River Near Looneys Gap
|
1750cfs |
Martins Fork Near Smith
|
144cfs |
Martins Fork Above Smith
|
59cfs |
Big Creek Near Rogersville
|
52cfs |
Clinch River At Speers Ferry
|
1320cfs |
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.
Blanken Dam
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