Shorter Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Shorter Dam in Pittsylvania, Virginia, is a private dam regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
Standing at a height of 29 feet and with a length of 290 feet, this earth dam controls an unnamed tributary to the Sandy River. It has a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 4.3 acres. Despite its undetermined hazard potential and not being rated for condition assessment, Shorter Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
The dam, completed in an unspecified year, serves various purposes such as water storage and flood control. Located at a latitude of 36.776 and longitude of -79.6284, it is monitored by state agencies for inspection, permitting, and enforcement. While the dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment remain unclear, its presence underscores the importance of infrastructure in mitigating the impacts of climate change on water resources. Water resource and climate enthusiasts would find Shorter Dam an intriguing case study in the intersection of environmental policy, engineering, and public safety.
As water resources face increasing stress from climate change, understanding the management and regulation of structures like Shorter Dam is crucial for sustainable development. With a capacity to store 58 acre-feet of water, this private dam in Virginia not only provides essential services but also poses potential risks that need to be carefully monitored and managed. By exploring the complexities of Shorter Dam, enthusiasts can gain insights into the challenges and opportunities in safeguarding water resources in the face of a changing climate.
Dam Length |
290 |
Dam Height |
29 |
River Or Stream |
Unnamed tributary to Sandy River |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
4.3 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Nid Storage |
58 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sandy River Near Danville
|
41cfs |
Pigg River Near Sandy Level
|
112cfs |
Smith River At Martinsville
|
149cfs |
Smith River At Eden
|
222cfs |
Dan River At Stp Near Danville
|
708cfs |
Smith River At Bassett
|
101cfs |
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.
Shorter Dam