Wells Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Burnette Lower Pond Dam New Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Wells Dam, located in Pittsylvania, Virginia, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
It stands at a height of 26 feet and spans 200 feet in length, with a primary dam type of Earth. The dam's purpose, storage capacity, and associated structures are all unspecified in the available data.
Despite its undetermined hazard potential and unassessed condition, Wells Dam is subject to state regulation, inspection, and enforcement. Its emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and risk management measures remain unclear, highlighting the need for further evaluation and preparedness. The dam overlooks an unnamed tributary to Stewart Creek and falls within the jurisdiction of the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Wells Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and oversight. Its location in a diverse ecological region underscores the importance of balancing energy production with environmental conservation. With its operational and safety details yet to be fully assessed, the dam offers a compelling opportunity for research and advocacy in sustainable water resource management.
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
26 |
River Or Stream |
Unnamed tributary to Stewart Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2 |
Hydraulic Height |
26 |
Nid Storage |
26 |
Structural Height |
26 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sandy River Near Danville
|
41cfs |
Pigg River Near Sandy Level
|
112cfs |
Dan River At Stp Near Danville
|
708cfs |
Smith River At Eden
|
222cfs |
Smith River At Martinsville
|
149cfs |
Smith River At Bassett
|
101cfs |
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.
Wells Dam