Hampton Forest Section 4 Swm Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Hampton Forest Section 4 Swm Dam in Fairfax, Virginia, is a crucial structure designed for flood risk reduction.


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Summary

Owned by the local government and regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, this earth dam stands at a height of 16.4 feet and has a storage capacity of 72.5 acre-feet. With a hazard potential rated as high, regular inspections ensure that the dam's condition remains satisfactory to protect the surrounding area.

Located in the Baltimore District, the dam's primary purpose is to mitigate flooding in the region, with a drainage area of 0.47 square miles. The structure, measuring 420 feet in length, plays a vital role in managing water resources and climate-related challenges in the area. With a history of regular inspections and emergency preparedness, the Hampton Forest Section 4 Swm Dam serves as a critical infrastructure for safeguarding the community against potential hazards.

Ensuring the safety and functionality of the Hampton Forest Section 4 Swm Dam is a top priority, given its high hazard potential and essential role in flood risk reduction. With its satisfactory condition assessment and emergency action plan in place, this earth dam continues to be a vital component in water resource management efforts in Fairfax County, Virginia. Climate enthusiasts and water resource experts alike can appreciate the importance of this structure in protecting the local environment and residents from potential water-related disasters.

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

16.4

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

16.4

Drainage Area

0.47

Nid Storage

72.5

Structural Height

16.4

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

16
       
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.