Sawyer Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sawyer Dam, located in Fauquier, Virginia, is a significant earth dam primarily used for irrigation purposes.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Standing at a height of 20 feet and stretching 276 feet in length, this private-owned structure regulates the flow of Buck Run, a river/stream in the area. With a storage capacity of 258 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Sawyer Dam is subject to state regulations, inspections, and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and functionality. Despite being labeled as "Not Rated" in terms of condition assessment, the dam's hazard potential is considered significant. While the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures remain unclear, its role in supporting irrigation activities and water supply in the region cannot be understated.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Sawyer Dam presents an intriguing case study in the intersection of infrastructure, water management, and environmental stewardship. As a key component of the local water system, the dam's condition and regulatory oversight are crucial factors in ensuring the resilience of the surrounding ecosystem and the sustainability of water resources in the area. Further exploration of the dam's risk assessment, emergency preparedness, and long-term management strategies could provide valuable insights for addressing similar challenges in other regions facing increasing pressures on water availability and quality.

Dam Length

276

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Buck Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

14

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

258

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

20
       
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.
View more

Area Campgrounds