Birchfield Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Birchfield Dam, also known as Forest Land Group Dam #1 in Wise County, Virginia, stands as a private-owned structure with a height of 30 feet and a length of 450 feet.


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Summary

This dam boasts a storage capacity of 45.6 million gallons of water, serving a critical role in managing the area's water resources. Situated in the Nashville District and Congressional District 09 of Virginia, Birchfield Dam holds a significant position in the region's infrastructure and environmental landscape.

Despite its importance, Birchfield Dam's hazard potential remains undetermined, with its condition yet to be rated. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment are also unclear, highlighting the need for further evaluation and monitoring. With its location in Wise, Virginia, Birchfield Dam presents a complex yet intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to understand the intersection of infrastructure, environmental stewardship, and public safety in the region.

As efforts to address climate change and water resource management intensify, Birchfield Dam stands as a focal point for evaluating the resilience and sustainability of our infrastructure systems. With its unique design and historical significance, this dam offers a rich opportunity for research and analysis in the context of evolving environmental challenges. As stakeholders continue to assess and improve the dam's safety and regulatory compliance, Birchfield Dam exemplifies the intricate balance between human development and natural conservation in the face of a changing climate.

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

30

Surface Area

3.5

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

0.3

Nid Storage

45.6

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

30
       
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.