Upper Occoquan Sewage Authority Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Upper Occoquan Sewage Authority Dam, located in Fairfax, Virginia, is a vital structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 41 feet and with a length of 1680 feet, this earth dam serves the primary purpose of managing water resources in the area, specifically along the TR-Bull Run river. With a normal storage capacity of 515 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 1130 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water supply management for the surrounding communities.

Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of September 2020, the Upper Occoquan Sewage Authority Dam has a high hazard potential, necessitating regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued safe operation. The dam's emergency action plan, last revised in November 2019, is a crucial component in mitigating risks and ensuring public safety in the event of a potential breach or overflow. With local government ownership and state regulation, this dam exemplifies the collaborative efforts required to manage and protect water resources in the face of climate change and increasing water-related challenges.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the Upper Occoquan Sewage Authority Dam stands as a critical asset in Fairfax, Virginia's water management system. By meeting regulatory standards, conducting regular inspections, and maintaining a robust emergency action plan, this dam plays a pivotal role in safeguarding the community against potential hazards and ensuring the sustainable use of water resources for future generations. Its location along the TR-Bull Run river underscores its importance in flood control, water supply management, and overall resilience in the face of evolving environmental pressures.

Dam Length

1680

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

TR-Bull Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

54

Hydraulic Height

41

Drainage Area

0.9

Nid Storage

1130

Structural Height

41

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

41
       
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.