West Ox Road Bmp Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

The West Ox Road Bmp Dam in Fairfax, Virginia, is a vital structure owned by the local government for flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 25.5 feet, with a storage capacity of 142.3 acre-feet and a hazard potential rated as high, this earth dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, ensuring its continued safety and effectiveness.

Located in the Baltimore District, the West Ox Road Bmp Dam is designed to withstand hydraulic pressures and has a satisfactory condition assessment as of August 2020. With a strong emergency action plan and regular inspections, this dam is well-prepared to handle any potential risks or emergencies that may arise. The primary purpose of the dam is flood risk reduction, reflecting its importance in managing water resources and climate-related challenges in the region.

As a key infrastructure for water resource management, the West Ox Road Bmp Dam serves as a critical line of defense against flooding in Fairfax County. With its strategic location and high hazard potential, the dam plays a significant role in ensuring the safety and security of the local community. Climate enthusiasts and water resource experts can appreciate the engineering and regulatory efforts that go into maintaining and operating this essential flood control structure in Virginia.

Dam Height

25.5

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

25.5

Drainage Area

1.67

Nid Storage

142.3

Structural Height

25.5

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

26
       
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.