Mottley Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Mottley Dam, located on the Long Branch river in Prince Edward, Virginia, is a privately-owned earth dam primarily used for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 28 feet and stretching 315 feet in length, the dam has a storage capacity of 475 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 310 acre-feet. With a surface area of 26 acres and a drainage area of 1.64 square miles, Mottley Dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy various water activities.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Mottley Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state to ensure its safety and compliance with standards. Despite being rated as low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment has not been conducted since 2009. While there are no associated structures or federal agency involvements with the dam, its location in a picturesque setting makes it an ideal destination for visitors seeking a tranquil and scenic environment to relax and unwind.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mottley Dam offers a glimpse into the intersection of human engineering and natural landscapes. Its presence on the Long Branch river not only provides recreational opportunities but also serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible dam management and maintenance to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and ecosystems. With its serene surroundings and potential for outdoor adventures, Mottley Dam stands as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of human recreation and environmental stewardship.

Dam Length

315

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

LONG BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

26

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

1.64

Nid Storage

475

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

28
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.