Occoquan Lower Storage Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Occoquan Lower Storage Dam, located in Fairfax, Virginia, serves as a vital water supply resource for the region, with a storage capacity of 170 acre-feet.


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Summary

This gravity dam, standing at 20 feet in height and stretching 484 feet in length, plays a crucial role in regulating the flow of the Occoquan River. The dam's primary purpose is for water supply, but it also has capabilities for hydroelectric power generation.

Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, the Occoquan Lower Storage Dam undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With a high hazard potential due to its location and function, the dam is rated as satisfactory in terms of its condition assessment. The last inspection in November 2020 confirmed its operational readiness and highlighted its importance in maintaining a reliable water source for the surrounding communities. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Occoquan Lower Storage Dam stands as a symbol of sustainable water management and conservation efforts in the region.

Dam Length

484

Dam Height

20

River Or Stream

Occoquan River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

19

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

596.2

Nid Storage

170

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

20
       
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.