Richmond Square Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Richmond Square Dam, located in Loudoun County, Virginia, is a privately owned structure designed by GORDON to serve the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Cattail Branch.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a height of 12 feet and a length of 1350 feet, this Earth dam has a storage capacity of 112.3 acre-feet, providing vital protection to the surrounding area. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, ensuring that it meets all necessary safety standards for inspection and enforcement.

Despite its fair condition assessment as of May 2019, Richmond Square Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its critical role in flood control. It is imperative for the owners to maintain and monitor the structure closely to prevent any potential risks to the community. The dam's emergency action plan, if prepared, would play a crucial role in mitigating any unforeseen events and ensuring the safety of nearby residents. With the oversight of regulatory agencies and regular inspections, Richmond Square Dam continues to be a vital asset in managing water resources and climate-related challenges in the region.

Dam Length

1350

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

Cattail Branch

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.9

Hydraulic Height

12

Nid Storage

112.3

Structural Height

12

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

12
       
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.