Cifax Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Cifax Lake Dam, also known as Falwell Jr.


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Summary

Dam, is a private dam located in Bedford, Virginia, along the Spring Branch river. This earth-type dam stands at a height of 50.5 feet and stretches 400 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 250 acre-feet for recreational purposes. With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the dam has been inspected periodically, with the last assessment conducted in October 2008.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Cifax Lake Dam has state jurisdiction and regulation, ensuring its safety and compliance with necessary permits and inspections. While the dam primarily serves recreational purposes, its location in the Norfolk District adds to its significance for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's modest surface area of 10 acres and drainage area of 0.11 square miles offer a serene environment for outdoor activities, attracting visitors to enjoy the scenic beauty and water-based recreational opportunities provided by the dam.

Although lacking detailed information on its construction year and specific design features, Cifax Lake Dam remains a notable structure in the region, overseen by state authorities and maintaining a relatively low risk profile. With its idyllic setting and contribution to local water resources, this dam is a valuable asset for both the community and environmental enthusiasts interested in its role in water management and climate resilience efforts in Virginia.

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

50.5

River Or Stream

SPRING BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

50.5

Drainage Area

0.11

Nid Storage

250

Structural Height

50.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

51
       
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.