Belsches Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Johnson Dam Game Reserve Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Belsches Dam, also known as Bellches Millpond, is a privately owned gravity dam located in Sussex, Virginia, near Petersburg.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam, with a height of 15 feet, was completed for recreational purposes and has a storage capacity of 290 acre-feet. The dam creates a surface area of 27.5 acres and is situated on the Jones Hole Swamp and Moores Swamp, making it a picturesque location for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Belsches Dam is state-regulated, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. Despite being classified as having an undetermined hazard potential and not currently rated for its condition, the dam remains a popular spot for recreation and leisure activities. With its serene surroundings and abundant wildlife, Belsches Dam offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the Virginia countryside.
While specific details about the dam's construction year and modification history are not provided, Belsches Dam continues to be a well-maintained structure that adds to the natural landscape of Sussex County. Water resource and climate enthusiasts can appreciate the importance of this dam in providing recreational opportunities while also recognizing the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its long-term sustainability and safety.
Dam Height |
15 |
River Or Stream |
Jones Hole Swamp (Mill Swamp)/Moores Swamp - VAHU6 CU29 Moores Swamp - Jones Hole Swamp |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
27.5 |
Drainage Area |
32.1 |
Nid Storage |
290 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nottoway River Near Stony Creek
|
302cfs |
Nottoway River Near Sebrell
|
396cfs |
Stony Creek Near Dinwiddie
|
32cfs |
Appomattox River At Matoaca
|
498cfs |
Blackwater River Near Dendron
|
137cfs |
Meherrin River At Emporia
|
327cfs |
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.
Belsches Dam