Pohick Creek Dam #8 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Pohick Creek Dam #8, also known as Lake Huntsman, is owned by the local government in Fairfax, Virginia.


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Summary

This earth dam on Middle Run serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction, with a height of 45.4 feet and a storage capacity of 1740 acre-feet. The dam, with a length of 700 feet, plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Located in the Baltimore District, Pohick Creek Dam #8 is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia. Despite being classified with a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in October 2020 reported it as satisfactory. Regular inspections ensure its safety and functionality, with an inspection frequency of one year. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in March 2014, indicating proactive measures in place for potential emergencies.

With its significant role in flood risk reduction and the protection of the local community, Pohick Creek Dam #8 stands as a vital infrastructure in Fairfax County, Virginia. Its strategic location, design, and maintenance highlight the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in safeguarding communities from natural disasters. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding and appreciating the role of dams like Pohick Creek Dam #8 is crucial in promoting sustainable practices for a safer and more resilient future.

Dam Length

700

Dam Height

45.4

River Or Stream

Middle Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27

Hydraulic Height

45.4

Drainage Area

2.33

Nid Storage

1740

Structural Height

45.4

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

45
       
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.