Butterwood Lake Upper Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Butterwood Lower Vpi
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Butterwood Lake Upper Dam, located in Nottoway, Virginia, is a vital structure on Birchin Creek, serving primarily for recreational purposes.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at 19 feet high and offers a storage capacity of 186 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 48 acre-feet. While the dam's hazard potential is currently undetermined and its condition not rated, it remains an essential asset for the local community.
Managed by the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, Butterwood Lake Upper Dam plays a crucial role in providing recreational opportunities for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the area. Despite lacking recent inspections and assessments, the dam continues to stand as a key feature on Birchin Creek, contributing to the natural landscape and offering a peaceful retreat for visitors seeking outdoor activities. With its strategic location and functional design, the dam represents a valuable asset for both the community and the environment.
As concerns about water resources and climate change continue to grow, the significance of structures like Butterwood Lake Upper Dam becomes increasingly apparent. With a focus on recreation and water management, this dam serves as a reminder of the intersection between human infrastructure and natural ecosystems. While its condition and hazard potential require further evaluation, Butterwood Lake Upper Dam remains a symbol of the delicate balance between human needs and environmental stewardship in Virginia's waterways.
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
BIRCHIN CREEK |
Hydraulic Height |
19 |
Nid Storage |
186 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
19 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nottoway River Near Rawlings
|
157cfs |
Deep Creek Near Mannboro
|
96cfs |
Stony Creek Near Dinwiddie
|
32cfs |
North Meherrin River Near Lunenburg
|
12cfs |
Meherrin River Near Lawrenceville
|
238cfs |
Appomattox River At Mattoax
|
309cfs |
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.
Butterwood Lake Upper Dam