Burnt Mountain Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Burnt Mountain Dam, located in Albemarle, Virginia, is a private-owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 30 feet and stretching for 500 feet, this earth dam serves primarily for recreational purposes along the tributary of Mechums River. With a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet and a surface area of 1.3 acres, Burnt Mountain Dam offers a picturesque setting for outdoor enthusiasts seeking water-based activities in the area.
Although the hazard potential and condition assessment of the dam are currently undetermined and not rated, it is subject to regular inspections to ensure compliance with safety standards. The dam does not fall under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers and does not have a designated emergency action plan or risk assessment in place. Despite these shortcomings, Burnt Mountain Dam continues to provide a valuable resource for the local community and visitors alike, highlighting the importance of maintaining and monitoring water infrastructure in the face of climate change challenges.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts explore the intricacies of Burnt Mountain Dam, its unique features and regulatory oversight offer insights into the complexities of managing water infrastructure for recreational purposes. With its location in a picturesque setting in Albemarle, Virginia, the dam stands as a testament to the balance between human enjoyment of water resources and the need for safety and environmental stewardship in the face of evolving climate conditions.
Dam Length |
500 |
Dam Height |
30 |
River Or Stream |
trib. Mechums River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
110 |
Structural Height |
30 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
30 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Rockfish River Near Greenfield
|
31cfs |
South River Near Waynesboro
|
34cfs |
South River Near Dooms
|
64cfs |
Mechums River Near White Hall
|
33cfs |
Moormans River Near Free Union
|
13cfs |
South River At Harriston
|
85cfs |
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.
Burnt Mountain Dam
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