Leesville Reservoir Report
Nearby: Swine Meyer Dam Ronald L.Todd Dam
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Leesville is a hydroelectric dam located in Pittsylvania, Virginia, along the Roanoke River.
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Summary
Constructed in 1963, this gravity dam stands at a height of 90 feet and has a normal storage capacity of 94,960 acre-feet. With a hydraulic height of 73 feet and a structural height of 90 feet, Leesville plays a crucial role in regulating water flow and generating hydroelectric power in the region.
Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Leesville is considered to have a high hazard potential due to its location and design. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 200 feet and is equipped with four Tainter radial gates for water release. Despite its age, the dam has not undergone a recent condition assessment, but emergency action plans are in place to address any potential risks associated with the structure.
With a maximum discharge capacity of 162,000 cubic feet per second and a surface area of 3,270 acres, Leesville serves as a vital resource for water management and energy production in the area. As a key component of the local water infrastructure, this dam provides essential services while also posing challenges in terms of maintenance and risk management. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, understanding the intricacies of dams like Leesville is crucial for ensuring the sustainable utilization of these critical assets in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1963 |
Dam Length |
980 |
Dam Height |
90 |
River Or Stream |
Roanoke River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
3270 |
Hydraulic Height |
73 |
Drainage Area |
1505 |
Nid Storage |
94960 |
Structural Height |
90 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 4 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
90 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Roanoke River At Altavista
|
618cfs |
Goose Creek Near Huddleston
|
56cfs |
Big Otter River Near Evington
|
101cfs |
Pigg River Near Sandy Level
|
112cfs |
Big Otter River Near Bedford
|
53cfs |
Falling River Near Naruna
|
57cfs |
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.
Leesville