Timberlake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wildwood Dam # 2 Wildwood Dam # 3
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Timberlake Dam, also known as the Carter D.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Martin Memorial Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Lynchburg, Virginia, along the Buffalo Creek main stem. With a primary purpose of recreation, the earth dam stands at a height of 28.7 feet and has a NID storage capacity of 1449 acre-feet. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 195 feet, allowing for a maximum discharge of 7899.3 cubic feet per second.
The dam's hazard potential is rated as high, although its condition assessment is deemed satisfactory as of the last inspection in May 2020. Despite being a private-owned structure, Timberlake Dam falls under state jurisdiction and regulation by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia. With a moderate risk assessment score of 3, the dam's risk management measures are currently unspecified, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure for both flood risk reduction and recreational purposes.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts intrigued by the intricacies of dam infrastructure and management would find Timberlake Dam a fascinating subject for further study. Its unique features, such as the uncontrolled spillway and stone core type, add to the complexity of its design and functionality within the Buffalo Creek watershed. As efforts continue to mitigate risks and enhance safety measures, Timberlake Dam serves as a crucial component of the local water resource management system, showcasing the intersection of human engineering and environmental conservation in the face of changing climate patterns.
Dam Length |
376 |
Dam Height |
28.7 |
River Or Stream |
Buffalo Creek main stem - VAHU6 RU56 Buffalo Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
57 |
Hydraulic Height |
28.7 |
Drainage Area |
4.96 |
Nid Storage |
1449 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Otter River Near Evington
|
101cfs |
Big Otter River Near Bedford
|
53cfs |
James River At Holcomb Rock
|
1010cfs |
Roanoke River At Altavista
|
618cfs |
Goose Creek Near Huddleston
|
58cfs |
Falling River Near Naruna
|
59cfs |
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.
Timberlake Dam
Timbrook Park
Sandusky Park
Perrymont Park
Blackwater Creek Athletic Area
Younger Park