Barr Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Brian Montgomery Dam Montgomery Pond
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Barr Dam, located in Fauquier, Virginia, on Buck Run, is a privately owned structure primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 33 feet and has a length of 505 feet, providing a storage capacity of 554 acre-feet. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, ensuring its safety and compliance with state guidelines.
With a hazard potential rated as significant, Barr Dam poses a risk that is closely monitored through regular inspections. Although the condition assessment is not rated, the last inspection in June 2015 indicated that emergency action plans have been prepared and updated in accordance with guidelines. The dam's location within the Baltimore District underlines its importance as a water resource for the region, highlighting the need for effective risk management measures to ensure the safety of surrounding communities.
Overall, Barr Dam serves as a crucial recreational resource in Virginia, offering opportunities for outdoor activities while also requiring diligent oversight to mitigate potential hazards. The dam's presence on Buck Run contributes to water storage and management in the area, emphasizing the importance of maintaining its structural integrity and adherence to regulatory standards. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role and condition of dams like Barr Dam is essential for promoting sustainable water practices and safeguarding against potential risks in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Dam Length |
505 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
Buck Run |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
17 |
Hydraulic Height |
33 |
Drainage Area |
8.2 |
Nid Storage |
554 |
Structural Height |
33 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Nid Height |
33 |
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.
Barr Dam