Lewis And Clark Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Lewis and Clark 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 dam, standing at a height of 38 feet and a length of 380 feet, serves primarily for recreational purposes and has a storage capacity of 68 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is rated as being in poor condition as of the last assessment in December 2017.

The dam impounds an unnamed tributary to Birch Creek and is situated within the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers. Although the dam lacks certain critical data points such as the year of completion and drainage area, it is equipped with safety measures such as emergency action plans and regular inspections. Given its important role in providing recreational opportunities in the region, efforts to improve its condition and maintenance may be necessary to ensure the safety and sustainability of this water resource.

Overall, Lewis and Clark Dam represents a key feature in the water infrastructure of Virginia, offering both recreational benefits and potential challenges in terms of maintenance and regulation. As water resource enthusiasts, it is important to monitor the condition of such structures and advocate for their proper management to safeguard water resources and mitigate risks associated with aging infrastructure. The dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between harnessing water for human needs and preserving the natural environment for future generations.

Dam Length

380

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

Unnamed tributary to Birch Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.8

Hydraulic Height

38

Nid Storage

68

Structural Height

38

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

38
       
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.