Harrells Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Horne Dam Creath Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Harrells Dam, located in Sussex, Virginia, serves as a vital water resource and recreational area along the Poplar Swamp.
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Summary
The dam, primarily owned and regulated by private entities, stands at a height of 10 feet and has a storage capacity of 169 acre-feet. While the dam's hazard potential is currently classified as undetermined, it is regularly inspected and maintained by the Department of Conservation and Recreation to ensure public safety and environmental protection.
Despite its modest size and limited structural information, Harrells Dam provides a tranquil setting for outdoor activities and wildlife habitat in the surrounding area. The dam's primary purpose is recreation, offering opportunities for fishing, boating, and nature appreciation. With a drainage area of 13.71 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and maintaining water quality in the region.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and ecosystems, dams like Harrells Dam will become increasingly important in managing water supply and mitigating flooding risks. By staying informed about the condition and management of dams like Harrells, water resource and climate enthusiasts can support sustainable practices for preserving and enhancing these essential infrastructure assets.
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
POPLAR SWAMP |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
13.71 |
Nid Storage |
169 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nottoway River Near Stony Creek
|
302cfs |
Meherrin River At Emporia
|
327cfs |
Nottoway River Near Sebrell
|
396cfs |
Stony Creek Near Dinwiddie
|
32cfs |
Meherrin River Near Lawrenceville
|
238cfs |
Roanoke River At Roanoke Rapids
|
2810cfs |
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.
Harrells Dam