Lake Jefferson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Jefferson Dam, also known as Presidential Lake Dam, stands as a private water resource marvel in King George, Virginia.


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Summary

Situated along the picturesque Popcastle Creek, this earth dam serves primarily for recreation, boasting a structural height of 33.6 feet and a storage capacity of 343 acre-feet. Its significant hazard potential is well managed, evident in its satisfactory condition assessment during the last inspection in July 2019.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, Lake Jefferson Dam presents a vital piece of infrastructure for water enthusiasts and climate aficionados alike. With a storage capacity of 213 acre-feet for normal operations, this dam offers a serene retreat for locals and visitors to enjoy its 19-acre surface area. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's regulatory and inspection protocols ensure its safety and continued recreational benefits for the community.

Nestled within the Baltimore District, Lake Jefferson Dam represents a harmonious blend of engineering excellence and environmental stewardship. Its location in the scenic King George County, Virginia, underlines its importance as a key water resource for the region. With its history shrouded in mystery regarding its completion year, the dam stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices and serves as a valuable asset for both recreation and conservation efforts in the area.

Dam Length

281

Dam Height

33.6

River Or Stream

POPCASTLE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Hydraulic Height

33.6

Drainage Area

0.31

Nid Storage

343

Structural Height

33.6

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

34
       
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.