Lake St. Clair Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake St.


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Summary

Clair Dam, located in Frederick, Virginia, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation. This earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and spans 500 feet along Babbs Run, serving primarily for recreational purposes. With a normal storage capacity of 231 acre-feet and a drainage area of 13.63 square miles, the dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its modest size, Lake St. Clair Dam poses a significant hazard potential and has not been officially rated for its condition. The last inspection in April 2020 highlighted the need for further assessment and potential risk management measures. With a frequency of one inspection per year, the dam remains a focal point for water resource enthusiasts and climate advocates interested in understanding its impact on the surrounding ecosystem and potential risks associated with its operation.

As climate change continues to impact water resources globally, the management and maintenance of dams like Lake St. Clair Dam become increasingly essential. With its proximity to residential areas and the potential for significant hazard, ensuring the safety and functionality of this structure is paramount. Climate enthusiasts and water resource experts alike monitor the dam closely, recognizing its role in both recreational activities and the broader ecosystem's health in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Dam Length

500

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

Babbs Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

34

Hydraulic Height

23

Drainage Area

13.63

Nid Storage

467

Structural Height

23

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

23
       
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.