Lake Burnt Mills Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Prince Dam Rhodes Dam
Last Updated: December 21, 2025
Lake Burnt Mills Dam, located in Suffolk, Virginia, is a crucial structure owned by a Public Utility for water supply purposes.
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Summary
This earth dam, standing at a height of 46.5 feet, impounds the Western Branch of Nansemond River, creating the scenic Western Branch Reservoir. With a storage capacity of 18,500 acre-feet and a surface area of 600 acres, the dam serves as a vital source of water for the region.
Managed and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, the dam has a spillway width of 57 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 15,665 cubic feet per second, ensuring the safety and functionality of the structure. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition, with regular inspections and enforcement measures in place to maintain its integrity. Climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates can appreciate the importance of Lake Burnt Mills Dam in providing both water supply and recreational opportunities while also managing the associated risks in a sustainable manner.
Overall, Lake Burnt Mills Dam stands as a significant infrastructure asset in Virginia, serving the community of Suffolk and beyond with essential water resources. Its role in water supply, recreation, and environmental management underscores the importance of responsible dam operation and maintenance in the face of changing climate conditions. As enthusiasts in water resource management and climate resilience, it is crucial to monitor and support initiatives that ensure the continued safety and sustainability of structures like Lake Burnt Mills Dam for the benefit of present and future generations.
Dam Length |
2520 |
Dam Height |
46.5 |
River Or Stream |
Western Branch of Nansemond River - VAHU6 JL47 Western Branch Reservoir |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
600 |
Drainage Area |
25.36 |
Nid Storage |
18500 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
47 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Blackwater River Near Franklin
|
256cfs |
Blackwater River Near Dendron
|
132cfs |
Nottoway River Near Sebrell
|
328cfs |
Pasquotank River Near South Mills
|
64cfs |
Potecasi Creek Near Union
|
12cfs |
Nottoway River Near Stony Creek
|
787cfs |
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.
Lake Burnt Mills Dam
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