Moomaws Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Moomaws Dam, located in Buena Vista, Virginia, is a privately-owned structure primarily used for hydroelectric purposes.


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Summary

Built in 1842, this gravity dam stands at a height of 20 feet and spans a length of 230 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 60 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Maury River and falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC).

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Moomaws Dam has a moderate risk assessment rating. The dam's spillway, with a width of 200 feet, is uncontrolled, and the structure is inspected every three years. While the condition assessment of the dam is not currently available, emergency action plans have been prepared and updated periodically, with the last revision made in September 2020.

With its historical significance and role in generating hydroelectric power, Moomaws Dam presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's unique design, age, and operational characteristics make it a focal point for understanding the intersection of infrastructure, environmental regulations, and risk management in the context of water resource management.

Year Completed

1842

Dam Length

230

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Maury River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

15

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

650

Nid Storage

60

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

20
       
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.