Sherwood Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sherwood Dam is a private-owned structure located in Fauquier, Virginia, along the TR-Burnt Mill Run river.


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Summary

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this earth dam stands at a height of 22 feet with a length of 400 feet, providing a storage capacity of 83 acre-feet for recreational purposes. Despite its undetermined hazard potential and not yet rated condition assessment, Sherwood Dam is state-regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced, ensuring its safety and compliance with regulatory standards.

Although the dam's construction date and any modifications remain unknown, its purpose primarily focuses on recreation, offering opportunities for outdoor activities in the surrounding area. With a maximum storage capacity of 83 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 41 acre-feet, Sherwood Dam serves as a vital resource for water supply and conservation in the region. While the emergency action plan (EAP) status, risk assessment, and management measures are currently not available, the dam's location and design indicate its importance in managing water resources and mitigating potential climate-related risks in the area.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Sherwood Dam presents an intriguing case study in private dam management within the state of Virginia. With its earth structure designed for recreational use and regulated by state authorities, the dam's role in water storage and risk prevention underscores the importance of sustainable infrastructure practices amidst changing environmental conditions. Further research and monitoring of Sherwood Dam's operations and safety measures could provide valuable insights into leveraging water resources effectively while adapting to climate challenges in the future.

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

22

River Or Stream

TR-Burnt Mill Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

22

Nid Storage

83

Structural Height

22

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

22
       
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.