Springhill Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Springhill Lake Dam, also known as Toms Dam, is a privately-owned structure located in Bedford, Virginia.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 44 feet and spans 400 feet in length with a primary purpose of recreation. It holds a maximum storage capacity of 231.9 acre-feet and covers an area of 11.17 acres. The dam is situated on the TR-Big Otter River and falls under the jurisdiction of the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia.

Despite its recreational focus, Springhill Lake Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, although its condition assessment remains unrated as of the last inspection in September 2017. The dam has not been modified in recent years, and emergency action plans are not yet in place. The structure is subject to regular state regulation, inspection, and enforcement to ensure its safety and compliance with standards. With its picturesque location and significant storage capacity, Springhill Lake Dam is a notable feature for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

In the care of private owners, Springhill Lake Dam serves as both a recreational attraction and a critical component of water management in the area. Its design by Froehling and Robertson, Inc. reflects a commitment to safety and functionality, although ongoing assessments and potential risk management measures may be necessary to address its high hazard potential. The dam's presence on the TR-Big Otter River adds to its environmental importance, highlighting the intersection of human-made structures with natural water systems. For those interested in water resources and climate, Springhill Lake Dam offers a fascinating case study in dam infrastructure and its impact on local ecosystems.

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

44

River Or Stream

TR-BIG OTTER RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.17

Hydraulic Height

44

Drainage Area

0.18

Nid Storage

231.9

Structural Height

44

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

44
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.