Townes is a private hydroelectric dam located in Patrick, Virginia, along the Dan River.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1938, this multi-arch dam stands at a height of 115 feet and boasts a storage capacity of 1400 acre-feet. With a normal storage capacity of 1325 acre-feet and a drainage area of 33 square miles, Townes plays a crucial role in providing hydroelectric power to the region.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Townes has a spillway width of 120 feet and a maximum discharge of 15,000 cubic feet per second. Despite its high hazard potential, Townes has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. In terms of safety measures, the dam's Emergency Action Plan was last revised in April 2021, ensuring that necessary protocols are in place to address any potential risks or emergencies.
The dam has not been subject to recent condition assessments, but with regular inspections and a designated inspection frequency of 1 year, Townes remains a key player in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1938 |
Dam Length |
575 |
Dam Height |
115 |
River Or Stream |
Dan |
Primary Dam Type |
Arch |
Surface Area |
40 |
Hydraulic Height |
115 |
Drainage Area |
33 |
Nid Storage |
1400 |
Structural Height |
133 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
133 |
Smith River At Smith Riv Church Nr Woolwine
|
21cfs |
Dan River Near Francisco
|
82cfs |
South Mayo River Near Nettleridge
|
49cfs |
Ararat River At Ararat
|
149cfs |
Smith River Near Philpott
|
74cfs |
Smith River At Bassett
|
101cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Willville Motorcycle Campground
|
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Rocky Knob
|
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Rocky Knob Campground
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Rocky Knob - Blue Ridge Parkway
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