Baker Mountain Tailings Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Located in Farmville, Virginia, the Baker Mountain Tailings Pond Dam, also known as Crocked Branch Dam or Industrial Waste Dam, is a private earth dam primarily used for tailings storage.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam stands at 54 feet in height and stretches 1330 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 578 acre-feet. Situated on the Crocked Branch of Spring Creek, the dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia and inspected by the Mine Safety and Health Administration.
With a low hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, the Baker Mountain Tailings Pond Dam poses a moderate risk level. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 321 cubic feet per second. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is subject to regular inspections, with the last assessment conducted in January 2020.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will be intrigued by the unique design and purpose of the Baker Mountain Tailings Pond Dam, as well as its location within the picturesque Prince Edward County of Virginia. With its history dating back to an industrial era, this private earth dam serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible waste management and environmental conservation in safeguarding our natural resources.
Dam Length |
1330 |
Dam Height |
54 |
River Or Stream |
Crocked Branch of Spring Creek - VAHU6 JA06 Spring Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
6 |
Drainage Area |
1.22 |
Nid Storage |
578 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
54 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Baker Mountain Tailings Pond Dam