Speights Run Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Speights Run Dam, located in Suffolk, Virginia, serves as a crucial water supply structure for the local government.
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Summary
With a height of 25.7 feet and a storage capacity of 4,000 acre-feet, this earth dam on the Speights Run river plays a vital role in providing water to the community. However, recent inspections have raised concerns about its condition, with a poor rating and high hazard potential.
Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Speights Run Dam is state-regulated and regularly inspected to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite its poor condition assessment, the dam continues to fulfill its primary purpose of water supply, with a normal storage capacity of 479 acre-feet and a surface area of 197 acres. The dam's location and design make it a critical piece of infrastructure in the region, highlighting the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to mitigate risks associated with its high hazard potential.
As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the maintenance and upkeep of dams like Speights Run Dam become increasingly important. With a history of inspections and regulatory oversight, this dam serves as a key component in the water supply network of Suffolk, Virginia. As efforts to address climate-related challenges intensify, the future of Speights Run Dam will depend on proactive risk management measures and continued investment in its maintenance and safety.
Dam Length |
650 |
Dam Height |
25.7 |
River Or Stream |
SPEIGHTS RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
197 |
Drainage Area |
12.81 |
Nid Storage |
4000 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Blackwater River Near Franklin
|
256cfs |
Pasquotank River Near South Mills
|
64cfs |
Blackwater River Near Dendron
|
132cfs |
Nottoway River Near Sebrell
|
328cfs |
Potecasi Creek Near Union
|
12cfs |
Ahoskie Creek At Ahoskie
|
15cfs |
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.
Speights Run Dam
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