Reston Town Center Western Bmp Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Reston Town Center Western Bmp Dam in Virginia is a vital structure designed for flood risk reduction along the Sugarland Run tributary.


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Summary

Owned privately, this earth dam stands at a height of 20.7 feet and serves to protect the surrounding area from potential inundation during times of heavy rainfall or rising water levels. With a storage capacity of 56.6 acre-feet and a surface area of 3.6 acres, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in Fairfax County.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this dam has been deemed to have a high hazard potential due to its location and purpose. Despite this, its condition assessment in 2013 was reported as satisfactory, indicating that the structure is currently in good standing. Regular inspections and maintenance ensure that the dam continues to function effectively in reducing flood risks and safeguarding the local community. With its importance in water resource management and climate resilience, the Reston Town Center Western Bmp Dam stands as a critical infrastructure in protecting against natural disasters.

As climate change continues to impact weather patterns and intensify rainfall events, structures like the Reston Town Center Western Bmp Dam will become increasingly essential in mitigating flood risks and ensuring the safety of communities. Its role in flood risk reduction and water resource management highlights the importance of proactive measures in adapting to a changing climate. With its satisfactory condition and regular inspections, this dam serves as a key component in the overall resilience of the region against future climate challenges.

Dam Height

20.7

River Or Stream

Sugarland Run tributary

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3.6

Hydraulic Height

20.7

Drainage Area

0.15

Nid Storage

56.6

Structural Height

20.7

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

21
       
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.