Byers Mill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Byers Mill Dam, located in Powhatan, Virginia, on Mill Creek, is a masonry dam with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Standing at 23 feet tall and 400 feet long, this dam provides a storage capacity of 130 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 76 acre-feet. Despite its undetermined hazard potential and not being rated for condition assessment, the dam remains state regulated and permitted by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.

With a latitude of 37.56 and a longitude of -77.8121, Byers Mill Dam offers a picturesque spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore. Even though the dam's hazard potential is yet to be determined, its location in a natural setting along Mill Creek provides an ideal backdrop for outdoor activities and relaxation. While the dam has not been recently inspected or assessed for condition, it remains under state jurisdiction and enforcement, ensuring the safety of visitors.

For those interested in water resources and climate, Byers Mill Dam presents an intriguing case study of a recreational dam in Virginia. Despite lacking recent inspections and condition assessments, the dam's state-regulated status and permitted operation by the Department of Conservation and Recreation indicate a commitment to safety and environmental conservation. With its serene location and potential for outdoor recreation, Byers Mill Dam offers a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to appreciate the intersection of human infrastructure and natural landscapes.

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

MILL CREEK

Hydraulic Height

23

Nid Storage

130

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

23
       
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.