Burrus Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Burrus Dam, located in Orange, Virginia, is a state-regulated structure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam stands at 20 feet high and spans 690 feet along the TR-Mountain Run river or stream. With a primary purpose of recreation, Burrus Dam offers a storage capacity of 119 acre-feet, providing ample opportunities for water-based activities in the area.

Although the hazard potential of Burrus Dam is currently labeled as "Undetermined" and its condition assessment is marked as "Not Rated," the dam is regularly inspected and maintained by state regulatory agencies. It is reassuring to know that the dam meets state permitting, inspection, and enforcement requirements, ensuring the safety of both the structure and the surrounding community. Additionally, the dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures are all areas that could see potential future improvements.

While Burrus Dam may not have a significant history of modifications or a detailed risk assessment in place, its vital role in providing recreational opportunities and water storage cannot be overlooked. As a focal point for outdoor enthusiasts and climate advocates alike, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible water resource management and the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of our natural surroundings.

Dam Length

690

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

TR-Mountain Run

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

119

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

20
       
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.