Talbott Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Talbott, a private hydroelectric dam located in Patrick, Virginia, is a stunning architectural marvel designed by Chas.


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Summary

T. Main and completed in 1938. With a structural height of 143.5 feet and a dam height of 123 feet, Talbott stands tall along the Dan River, offering a picturesque sight to water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

This multi-arch dam boasts a storage capacity of 7,540 acre-feet and a maximum discharge rate of 8,500 cubic feet per second. Despite its age, Talbott remains a vital component of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission's regulatory framework, ensuring safe operation and inspection compliance. The dam's uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 80 feet, adds to its impressive engineering features.

Although Talbott carries a high hazard potential, its risk assessment is moderate, indicating a balanced approach to risk management. With its rich history and ongoing maintenance efforts, Talbott continues to play a crucial role in harnessing hydroelectric power while maintaining the surrounding ecosystem's integrity.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

510

Dam Height

123

River Or Stream

Dan

Primary Dam Type

Arch

Surface Area

165

Hydraulic Height

123

Drainage Area

20

Nid Storage

7540

Structural Height

143.5

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

144
       
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.