Burruss Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Burruss Dam, located in Virginia on Cedar Creek, is a private-owned earth dam primarily used for recreation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam stands at a height of 20 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 95 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 51 acre-feet. While the hazard potential of the dam is currently classified as undetermined, it is regulated by the state of Virginia and subject to regular inspections and enforcement by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.

Despite not being rated for its condition assessment, Burruss Dam serves as a vital resource for water enthusiasts and climate advocates in the Amherst County area. The dam's location offers a serene setting for recreational activities, with a surface area of 3 acres and a distance of 3 miles from the nearest city. The dam's purpose for recreation aligns with its surrounding natural environment, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking to enjoy the beauty of Cedar Creek.

While details such as the year of completion and specific modifications are not provided, Burruss Dam remains an important feature in the Norfolk District, offering opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-related activities. As a privately-owned structure with state oversight, the dam's role in water resource management and climate resilience underscores the need for ongoing maintenance and monitoring to ensure its continued safety and enjoyment for all who visit.

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

CEDAR CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

95

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

20
       
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.