Buckland Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Buckland Dam, located in Prince William, Virginia, is a private-owned structure primarily used for recreation in the South Run river.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 21.83 feet with a storage capacity of 56.13 acre-feet, providing a surface area of 6.21 acres for outdoor activities. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia, ensuring proper permitting, inspection, and enforcement to maintain its safety and functionality.

Although the hazard potential and condition assessment of Buckland Dam are currently undetermined and not rated, the dam meets state regulatory standards for operation and maintenance. Its emergency action plan status and risk management measures are not specified, suggesting a need for further evaluation and improvement in these areas. The dam does not fall under the jurisdiction of the US Army Corps of Engineers and has not been modified or inspected recently, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and assessment to ensure its long-term viability.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Buckland Dam presents an intriguing case study of a privately-owned earth dam designed for recreation purposes in Virginia. The dam's location in the South Run river offers opportunities for outdoor activities and water-based recreation, while its regulatory oversight by the state ensures compliance with safety standards. With its current hazard potential and condition assessment unknown, there is a need for enhanced risk assessment and emergency preparedness to safeguard this essential water resource in the region.

Dam Height

21.83

River Or Stream

South Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

6.21

Hydraulic Height

21.83

Nid Storage

56.13

Structural Height

21.83

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

22
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds