Schoolfield Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Schoolfield Dam, also known as Robertson Bridge Dam, is a private hydroelectric structure located on the Dan River in Danville, Virginia.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a gravity design and a height of 25 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 5,000 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 438 acres, serving a drainage area of 1,878 acres. Completed at an unspecified date, the dam plays a crucial role in generating hydroelectric power for the region.

Although the condition assessment of Schoolfield Dam is currently not rated and its hazard potential is undetermined, the dam continues to operate without state regulation, permitting, inspection, or enforcement. The emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk management measures for the dam are also not specified, raising questions about its preparedness for potential emergencies. Despite these uncertainties, the dam stands as a significant infrastructure for water resource management and climate enthusiasts to monitor and study in the Danville area.

As an integral part of the hydroelectric infrastructure in the region, Schoolfield Dam presents an intriguing case for water resource and climate enthusiasts to explore. Its location on the Dan River, along with its private ownership and gravity design, showcases a unique blend of engineering and environmental considerations. While the dam's condition assessment and regulatory status remain unclear, its role in providing hydroelectric power and water storage underscores the importance of monitoring and assessing its long-term viability and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

1190

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

DAN RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

438

Hydraulic Height

25

Drainage Area

1878

Nid Storage

5000

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

25
       
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.