Burke Centre Section 11b Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Burke Centre Section 11b Dam, located in Fairfax, Virginia, is a crucial structure owned by the local government for flood risk reduction.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 34.9 feet, with a storage capacity of 84.82 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.11 square miles. With a high hazard potential but a satisfactory condition assessment as of November 2020, the dam plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Burke Centre Section 11b Dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its operational integrity and safety. Despite not being associated with any federal agencies, the dam serves as a critical piece of infrastructure in the region, safeguarding against flood risks and demonstrating the importance of local government ownership in water resource management. Its strategic location and design make it a key asset in the ongoing efforts to mitigate the impact of climate change on water resources in the area.

As climate change continues to pose challenges for water resources, structures like Burke Centre Section 11b Dam are essential for managing flood risks and ensuring the safety of communities. With proper oversight and maintenance, this dam will continue to play a crucial role in flood risk reduction and water resource management in Fairfax County. Its presence underscores the importance of proactive infrastructure planning and investment in safeguarding against the potential impacts of a changing climate on water resources.

Dam Height

34.9

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

34.9

Drainage Area

0.11

Nid Storage

84.82

Structural Height

34.9

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

35
       
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.