Burt Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Burt Dam, located in Henry, Virginia, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for recreational purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 39.5 feet and with a length of 575 feet, the dam provides a maximum storage capacity of 139.51 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 74.97 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia and is inspected periodically to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state regulations.

Although the hazard potential of Burt Dam is currently classified as undetermined and its condition assessment is marked as not rated, the dam remains a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts seeking recreational opportunities. The dam's location near the Wilmington District and its association with Congressman Denver Riggleman make it a key landmark in the region. While the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are not fully detailed in the data, its importance for water resource management and climate resilience in the area is evident.

As a significant earth dam in Virginia, Burt Dam serves as both a recreational hub and a vital component of the state's water infrastructure. With its storage capacity and strategic location, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources and mitigating potential risks associated with flooding and other water-related hazards. As water resource and climate enthusiasts continue to monitor and assess the impact of dams like Burt Dam, their role in ensuring sustainable water management practices and resilience in the face of changing climatic conditions becomes increasingly important.

Dam Length

575

Dam Height

39.5

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.95

Hydraulic Height

39.5

Nid Storage

139.51

Structural Height

39.5

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

40
       
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.