Thorton Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Barringer Pond Dam Collie Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Thorton Dam, located in Pittsylvania, Virginia, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
This earth-type dam serves the primary purpose of irrigation on the Sandy Creek river. Standing at a height of 29 feet, Thorton Dam has a storage capacity of 94 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 71 acre-feet.
Although the condition assessment of Thorton Dam is currently listed as "Not Rated," its hazard potential is classified as "Undetermined." The dam has not undergone a recent inspection, with an inspection frequency of 0. The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for Thorton Dam is not rated, and there is no information available regarding risk assessment, management measures, or inundation maps.
With its location in a picturesque setting and important role in irrigation, Thorton Dam is a significant water resource structure in Virginia. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate can appreciate the complexities and challenges associated with managing and maintaining this essential piece of infrastructure.
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
SANDY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Nid Storage |
94 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dan River At Stp Near Danville
|
979cfs |
Dan River At Paces
|
1160cfs |
Sandy River Near Danville
|
38cfs |
Hyco R Bl Abay D Nr Mcgehees Mill
|
1cfs |
Hyco Creek Near Leasburg
|
5cfs |
Dan River At South Boston
|
1070cfs |
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.
Thorton Dam