Lake Accotink Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Accotink Dam, located in Fairfax, Virginia, is a vital structure regulating water flow along the picturesque Accotink Creek.


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Summary

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this earth dam stands at a height of 28 feet and stretches 1065 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 2963 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is recreation, providing a serene backdrop for outdoor activities in the region.

Despite its fair condition assessment as of October 2020, Lake Accotink Dam poses a high hazard potential, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. With a history dating back to an unspecified completion year, this dam has become a focal point for water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates alike. As the dam overlooks Accotink Creek, its role in water management and environmental protection cannot be understated.

Gerald E. Connolly, the Democratic representative for the area, plays a key role in overseeing the dam's operations and ensuring compliance with state regulations. As one of the few earth dams in the region, Lake Accotink Dam serves as a symbol of resilience and sustainable water management practices. Its impact on the surrounding ecosystem and recreational opportunities makes it a significant landmark for both locals and visitors alike.

Dam Length

1065

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

Accotink Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

88

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

31

Nid Storage

2963

Structural Height

28

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

28
       
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.