Claytor Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Claytor Dam, located in Pulaski, Virginia, is a gravity dam completed in 1939 primarily for hydroelectric power generation.


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Summary

With a height of 93.5 feet and a hydraulic height of 122 feet, the dam boasts a structural height of 139 feet and a storage capacity of 232,000 acre-feet. The dam's reservoir covers a surface area of 4,472 acres and serves multiple purposes including navigation, recreation, and water supply in addition to its hydroelectric function.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Claytor Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its location on the New River, with a maximum discharge capacity of 1,043,800 cubic feet per second. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 450 feet and is equipped with nine vertical lift outlet gates. Despite its age, the dam's condition assessment is not available, and its risk assessment is classified as very high, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure public safety and environmental sustainability.

As a key landmark in the region, Claytor Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate adaptation efforts. Its strategic location and multiple uses underscore the importance of balancing energy production with environmental conservation and recreational opportunities. With its rich history and significant impact on the surrounding area, Claytor Dam stands as a testament to the ingenuity and resilience of water resource engineers in harnessing the power of nature for the benefit of society.

Year Completed

1939

Dam Length

1150

Dam Height

93.5

River Or Stream

New

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

4472

Hydraulic Height

122

Drainage Area

2382

Nid Storage

232000

Structural Height

139

Outlet Gates

Vertical Lift - 9

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

139
       
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.