Fort Pickett Reservoir Reservoir Report
Nearby: Birchin Lake Butterwood Lower
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Fort Pickett Reservoir, also known as Nottoway Reservoir, is a federal water supply reservoir located in Brunswick, Virginia.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Managed by the US Army, this reservoir was completed in 1942 and serves multiple purposes including water supply, recreation, and other uses. With a normal storage capacity of 2350 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 2757 acre-feet, it covers a surface area of 384 acres and drains an area of 202 square miles.
The dam at Fort Pickett Reservoir is a buttress type with a structural height of 36 feet and a hydraulic height of 16 feet. The spillway is uncontrolled with a width of 376 feet. Although the last inspection was conducted in 1995, the reservoir is categorized as having a significant hazard potential and a moderate risk level. While the condition assessment is not available, the reservoir's emergency action plan status, inundation maps, and risk management measures are also not specified.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Fort Pickett Reservoir offers an intriguing case study in federal water resource management. The reservoir's historical significance, multiple uses, and unique dam characteristics make it a valuable asset to the region. Additionally, the reservoir's risk assessment and hazard potential provide insight into the challenges and considerations involved in maintaining and operating such critical infrastructure. The limited information available on the reservoir's condition and emergency preparedness highlights the need for continued monitoring and assessment to ensure the safety and sustainability of this important water supply source.
Year Completed |
1942 |
Dam Length |
1030 |
Primary Dam Type |
Buttress |
Surface Area |
384 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
202 |
Nid Storage |
2757 |
Structural Height |
36 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
36 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nottoway River Near Rawlings
|
207cfs |
Meherrin River Near Lawrenceville
|
276cfs |
Stony Creek Near Dinwiddie
|
59cfs |
Deep Creek Near Mannboro
|
119cfs |
North Meherrin River Near Lunenburg
|
12cfs |
Allen Creek Near Boydton
|
6cfs |
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.
Fort Pickett Reservoir