Crippen Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Crippen Dam, also known as Stump Dump Landfill Dam, is a private dam located in Fairfax, Virginia.


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Summary

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this earth dam stands at a height of 9 feet and stretches 130 feet in length. It serves a primary purpose classified as 'Other', with a storage capacity of 130 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.25 square miles along the TR-Nichols Run river or stream.

The dam's hazard potential is marked as 'Undetermined' and its condition assessment is 'Not Rated', with the last inspection conducted in March 2013. Crippen Dam has a state-regulated status, with permitting, inspection, and enforcement all within the jurisdiction of the Department of Conservation and Recreation. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk assessment measures are currently not available, suggesting a need for further evaluation and preparedness in case of any potential incidents or emergencies.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Crippen Dam presents an intriguing case study in dam management and regulation in Virginia. With its unique history as a former landfill dam, there is a need for ongoing monitoring and assessment to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. As discussions around water infrastructure and climate resilience continue to gain importance, Crippen Dam serves as a reminder of the critical role that proper maintenance and regulatory oversight play in safeguarding our water resources and communities.

Dam Length

130

Dam Height

9

River Or Stream

TR-Nichols Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

9

Drainage Area

0.25

Nid Storage

130

Structural Height

9

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

9
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.