Sanders Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Old Cabin Road Dam Moore Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Sanders Dam, located in Pittsylvania, Virginia, is a privately-owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 32 feet with a length of 335 feet, this earth dam serves as a vital component in managing an unnamed tributary to the Dan River. With a storage capacity of 123 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
Despite being classified as low hazard potential, Sanders Dam has not been rated for its condition assessment. However, it undergoes inspections at a frequency of once a year to ensure its structural integrity and safety. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it continues to play a significant role in water storage and management in the area.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sanders Dam presents a unique opportunity to study the intersection of private ownership, state regulation, and environmental impact. As climate change continues to impact water resources, understanding the role of dams like Sanders Dam in mitigating risks and ensuring water security becomes increasingly important for sustainable water management practices in the future.
Dam Length |
335 |
Dam Height |
32 |
River Or Stream |
Unnamed tributary to Dan River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.8 |
Hydraulic Height |
32 |
Nid Storage |
123 |
Structural Height |
32 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
32 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sandy River Near Danville
|
41cfs |
Dan River At Stp Near Danville
|
708cfs |
Smith River At Eden
|
222cfs |
Dan River Near Wentworth
|
559cfs |
Smith River At Martinsville
|
149cfs |
Hyco Creek Near Leasburg
|
5cfs |
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.
Sanders Dam