Unimin Fresh Water Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Unimin Fresh Water Dam, located in Frederick, Virginia, is a privately owned earth dam with a height of 46 feet and a length of 600 feet.
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Summary
It serves as a crucial structure for water resource management, with a storage capacity of 110 acre-feet and a drainage area of 0.63 square miles, primarily impounding Back Creek. Despite being classified as a high hazard potential dam, its condition assessment is currently not rated, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity and functionality.
Although the dam's primary purpose is listed as "Other," it plays a vital role in regulating water flow and storage in the region. It is not regulated by the state and does not have a state inspection or enforcement program in place. With its proximity to residential areas and the potential risks associated with a high hazard dam, it is important for emergency action plans to be prepared and regularly updated to ensure proper response protocols in case of a dam failure or emergency situation. Additionally, the dam does not fall under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers, indicating that its maintenance and oversight responsibilities lie solely with the private owner.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Unimin Fresh Water Dam presents a unique case study for understanding the complexities of dam management and the importance of proactive risk assessment and mitigation strategies. Its location in a highly populated area underscores the critical role that such infrastructure plays in providing water security and flood control measures for local communities. Continued monitoring and evaluation of the dam's condition, along with the development of comprehensive emergency preparedness plans, are essential steps in ensuring the safety and resilience of this important water resource structure.
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
46 |
River Or Stream |
Back Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Drainage Area |
0.63 |
Nid Storage |
110 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
46 |
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.
Unimin Fresh Water Dam
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