Paul Riefenberg Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Paul Riefenberg Dam, located in Wythe, Virginia, is a state-regulated structure under the jurisdiction of the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

With a height of 33.25 feet and a storage capacity of 70.89 acre-feet, this dam serves as a vital water resource for the region. The dam's primary purpose and design type are not specified in the available data, but its importance in water management and conservation cannot be overstated.

While the condition assessment of Paul Riefenberg Dam is marked as "Not Rated," its hazard potential is listed as "Undetermined." This raises questions about the safety and maintenance of the structure, prompting further inquiries into its risk management measures and emergency preparedness. Given its location and role in water storage, it is crucial for stakeholders and authorities to ensure the dam's stability and functionality to prevent any potential environmental or climatic threats.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the data surrounding Paul Riefenberg Dam piques our interest in understanding the dam's history, construction, and current management practices. The lack of specific details regarding its purpose, construction year, and risk assessment calls for a more in-depth exploration of this significant infrastructure. With its location in a region susceptible to climate variability, the safety and effectiveness of Paul Riefenberg Dam are essential considerations for sustainable water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the area.

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

33.25

Surface Area

5.01

Hydraulic Height

33.25

Nid Storage

70.89

Structural Height

33.25

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

33
       
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.