Epes Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Walkers Dam Hurts Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Epes Dam, also known as Amtoco Lake Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Blackstone, Virginia.
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Summary
The dam is primarily used for recreation purposes and is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. It has a low hazard potential and is in satisfactory condition based on a 2011 assessment. The dam has a height of 28.5 feet and a length of 305 feet, with a storage capacity of 701 acre-feet and a normal storage of 73 acre-feet.
Situated on the Horsepen Creek and Little Nottoway River, the Epes Dam serves as a vital resource for water management in the region. Its uncontrolled spillway has a width of 25 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 3232 cubic feet per second. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating a potential need for ongoing risk management measures in the future.
Overall, Epes Dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities and water storage in the Nottoway County area. With its strategic location and regulated operations, the dam serves as a key asset for both environmental conservation and community enjoyment. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the significance of structures like Epes Dam is essential for promoting sustainable water management practices and resilient infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.
Dam Length |
305 |
Dam Height |
28.5 |
River Or Stream |
Horsepen Creek - VAHU6 CU06 Little Nottoway River - Whetstone Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
28.5 |
Drainage Area |
3.1 |
Nid Storage |
701 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Epes Dam