Birchin Lake Reservoir Report
Nearby: Tommeheton Lake Butterwood Lower
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Birchin Lake, located in Nottoway, Virginia, is a Federal-owned water resource managed by the US Army for multiple purposes including fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and recreation.
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Summary
This Earth-type dam, completed in 1942, stands at a structural height of 15 feet and a hydraulic height of 11 feet, with a spillway width of 63 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 367 acre-feet, with a surface area of 44 acres and a drainage area of 6 square miles.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the lake has a moderate risk rating, indicating a need for ongoing risk management. The last inspection in 1995 revealed no specific condition assessment, and there are limited details available on emergency preparedness measures. Birchin Lake remains an important water source in the region, providing a picturesque setting for recreational activities and serving as a vital resource for wildlife and fire protection efforts. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the management and conservation of Birchin Lake will be crucial for sustaining its ecological and recreational value in the future.
Year Completed |
1942 |
Dam Length |
500 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
44 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
6 |
Nid Storage |
367 |
Structural Height |
15 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
15 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Nottoway River Near Rawlings
|
157cfs |
Stony Creek Near Dinwiddie
|
32cfs |
Deep Creek Near Mannboro
|
96cfs |
Meherrin River Near Lawrenceville
|
238cfs |
North Meherrin River Near Lunenburg
|
12cfs |
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.
Birchin Lake