Thompson Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Antoinette Hudson Dam Mathews Dam
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Thompson Dam, located in Fauquier, Virginia, along the Crooked Run River, stands as a vital water resource for the region.
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Summary
With a primary purpose of recreation, this earth-type dam boasts a height of 52 feet and a storage capacity of 300 acre-feet, providing a serene surface area of 10 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy. Despite its significance for recreational activities, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with a high hazard potential, indicating a pressing need for maintenance and upgrades to ensure its long-term safety and functionality.
Managed by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, Thompson Dam is subject to state regulation, permitting, inspection, and enforcement to uphold safety standards and environmental protection measures. The dam's last inspection in February 2020 revealed its deteriorating condition, highlighting the urgent need for structural improvements and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and ensure the dam's resilience in the face of changing climate patterns. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the preservation and enhancement of Thompson Dam play a crucial role in safeguarding water security and supporting sustainable recreation opportunities for future generations.
In light of the dam's high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, stakeholders and regulatory agencies must prioritize collaborative efforts to address the dam's maintenance needs, implement risk management measures, and develop emergency preparedness plans to protect downstream communities in the event of a dam failure. With a focus on enhancing infrastructure resilience and water resource management, Thompson Dam serves as a critical focal point for climate resilience initiatives and sustainable water governance in the region, emphasizing the importance of proactive maintenance and investment in safeguarding vital water resources for the well-being of both present and future generations.
Dam Length |
560 |
Dam Height |
52 |
River Or Stream |
Crooked Run |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
52 |
Drainage Area |
1.48 |
Nid Storage |
300 |
Structural Height |
52 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
52 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Camp Slater
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Camp Washington
|
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Mosby Campground
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Thompson Dam
Upperville Park
Happy Creek Park
Ed Stump Playground