Burton Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Anderson Dam Aaron Dam
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Burton Dam in Pittsylvania, Virginia, is a state-regulated earth dam standing at 33 feet high and spanning 185 feet in length.
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Summary
Built by the Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries, this structure on Tomahawk Creek serves primarily for recreation purposes, offering a surface area of 73.2 acres and a storage capacity of 1450 acre-feet. Despite its fair condition assessment and high hazard potential, the dam has been inspected annually, with the most recent assessment conducted in April 2020.
Located in the Wilmington District, Burton Dam is overseen by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia. With a hazard potential rating of high, the dam poses a risk that is mitigated by regular inspections and maintenance measures. The dam's primary purpose of recreation draws enthusiasts to its scenic surroundings and ample storage for outdoor activities. Although there is room for improvement in terms of risk management strategies, Burton Dam remains a valuable water resource for the community and a popular destination for locals and visitors alike.
As a vital part of the region's water infrastructure, Burton Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. With its significant storage capacity and recreational value, the dam serves as a key asset for the state of Virginia. Continued monitoring and maintenance will be essential to ensure the safety and functionality of Burton Dam for future generations to enjoy and benefit from its amenities.
Dam Length |
185 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
TOMAHAWK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
73.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
33 |
Drainage Area |
7.65 |
Nid Storage |
1450 |
Structural Height |
33 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Pigg River Near Sandy Level
|
112cfs |
Sandy River Near Danville
|
40cfs |
Goose Creek Near Huddleston
|
56cfs |
Blackwater River Near Rocky Mount
|
56cfs |
Roanoke River At Altavista
|
618cfs |
Dan River At Stp Near Danville
|
905cfs |
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.
Burton Dam