Burnsville, WV

The dam is earthen fill with an impervious clay core. There is also a concrete section which includes the spillway and outlet works. The summer pool elevation is maintained from April though September. Lowering of the summer pool, to provide additional floodwater storage, begins October 1st and continues until winter pool elevation is reached. This lower elevation is maintained through March. The outlet works include five sluice gates and three low flow gates which are all hydraulically operated. These gates are used to maintain lake elevations, to control downstream river levels, and to provide good water quality downstream. Although the primary purpose of the dam is flood control, Burnsville Lake offers many recreational opportunities such as hunting, fishing, picnicking, hiking, camping, and much more.Water sports and RVs are permitted. Try live bait and small jigs.