Burnshire is a private hydroelectric dam located in Shenandoah, Virginia, along the North Fork Shenandoah river.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1904, this gravity dam stands at 14 feet high and spans 400 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 66 acre-feet. Owned and operated by a private entity, Burnshire is not regulated by the state but falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for permitting, inspections, and enforcement. The dam has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.
Despite its age, Burnshire remains in good condition with a three-year inspection frequency, last assessed in June 2018. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 280 feet, designed to handle the maximum discharge from the 675-square-mile drainage area. The primary purpose of Burnshire is to generate hydroelectric power, utilizing a multi-arch core type structure built on a rock foundation. With its historical significance and continued operation, Burnshire serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in sustainable energy production and dam infrastructure management.
Year Completed |
1904 |
Dam Length |
400 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
North Fork Shenandoah |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
12 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
675 |
Nid Storage |
66 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
14 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Little Fort OHV
|
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Little Fort Campground
|
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Mudhole Gap Camping
|
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Little Crease Shelter
|
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Commercial Campground
|
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Elizabeth Furnace
|