Thornhill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 8, 2025

Thornhill Dam, located in Pulaski, Virginia, is a privately owned structure primarily used for irrigation purposes.


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Summary

The dam, with a height of 25 feet, provides a storage capacity of 80 acre-feet of water from TR-Bentleys Branch. While its specific construction date is not provided, the dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, ensuring proper inspection and enforcement measures are in place to maintain its integrity.

Despite being classified as an Earth dam with an undetermined hazard potential and a condition assessment of "Not Rated," Thornhill Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region. With a normal storage capacity of 30 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 80 acre-feet, the dam not only supports irrigation needs but also offers recreational opportunities for the community. The dam's location within the Wilmington District further emphasizes its significance in the overall water infrastructure of the area.

As enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate, Thornhill Dam provides a fascinating case study for understanding the intersection of private ownership, state regulation, and the critical role dams play in ensuring water availability for various purposes. The dam's presence highlights the importance of proper management and maintenance to safeguard against potential hazards and ensure sustainable water use in the face of changing climate conditions. With its unique characteristics and regulatory oversight, Thornhill Dam stands as a testament to the ongoing efforts to balance water resource management with environmental conservation.

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-BENTLEYS BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

80

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

25
       
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.