Gatewood Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Gatewood Dam, located in Pulaski, Virginia, is a gravity-type structure designed by Froehling and Robertson, Inc.


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Summary

The dam serves as a vital water supply source in the region, with a storage capacity of 3,630 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 1,944 acre-feet. Sitting on Peak Creek, the dam stands at a height of 57 feet and stretches 408 feet in length, with a hazard potential rated as high and a fair condition assessment as of March 2019.

Managed by the local government, Gatewood Dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia. While the dam has not undergone significant modifications since its construction, it is subject to regular state inspections, enforcement measures, and permitting requirements to ensure its structural integrity and operational safety. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's condition is deemed fair, with emergency action plans in place to address any potential risks or incidents that may arise.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Gatewood Dam presents a critical infrastructure supporting the water supply needs of Pulaski, Virginia. Its location on Peak Creek and strategic design by industry experts make it a key player in water management efforts in the region. With ongoing state oversight and regular inspections, the dam continues to serve its primary purpose effectively while ensuring the safety and well-being of local communities that rely on its reservoir for water supply.

Dam Length

408

Dam Height

57

River Or Stream

PEAK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

167.8

Hydraulic Height

57

Drainage Area

15.6

Nid Storage

3630

Structural Height

57

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

57
       
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.
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