Barcroft Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Barcroft Dam, located in Fairfax, Virginia, is a gravity dam built for recreational purposes along Holmes Run.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 69 feet and spanning 500 feet in length, the dam serves to create a reservoir with a storage capacity of 3020 acre-feet. The dam is state-regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, with regular inspections ensuring its structural integrity and safety.

The dam's hazard potential is classified as high, but its condition assessment as of April 2021 was deemed satisfactory. In case of emergencies, the dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is in place, last revised in August 2015. The dam's risk assessment and management measures are currently not specified, and there are no inundation maps prepared. Despite these factors, Barcroft Dam remains a significant feature in the region, offering recreational opportunities while being closely monitored and maintained for public safety and water resource management.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Barcroft Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam infrastructure within the state of Virginia. Its construction and maintenance reflect the intersection of recreational needs and water management practices, with a focus on ensuring safety and regulatory compliance. As debates over dam safety and environmental impact continue, Barcroft Dam stands as a testament to the ongoing challenges and responsibilities associated with managing water resources in a changing climate.

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

69

River Or Stream

Holmes Run

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

154

Hydraulic Height

69

Drainage Area

14.5

Nid Storage

3020

Structural Height

69

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

69
       
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.