Braswell's Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Braswell's Dam, located in Patrick County, Virginia, is a private earth dam constructed on the Dan River with the primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 32.5 feet and stretching 900 feet in length, the dam provides a storage capacity of 205.01 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 132.84 acre-feet. The dam's Hazard Potential is classified as high, but its overall Condition Assessment is rated as fair.

While the dam is privately owned, it falls under state regulation and oversight by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia. It is regularly inspected, with the last assessment conducted in February 2015. The dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status and risk management measures are currently unspecified, leaving room for further evaluation and potential improvements to enhance safety and environmental protection.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Braswell's Dam offers a fascinating case study in the intersection of human recreation and environmental stewardship. As a key feature on the Dan River, this dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between harnessing water resources for leisure activities and ensuring the safety and sustainability of our natural ecosystems. Ongoing monitoring and proactive measures will be crucial in safeguarding the dam's integrity and minimizing potential risks in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

32.5

River Or Stream

DAN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

12.3

Hydraulic Height

32.5

Drainage Area

0.46

Nid Storage

205.01

Structural Height

32.5

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

33
       
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.