Lunga Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lunga Dam, also known as Lunga Reservoir, is a federal-owned structure located in Stafford, Virginia, managed by the US Marine Corps and funded by the US Navy.


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Summary

Completed in 1956, the dam serves primarily for recreation and water supply purposes, with a maximum storage capacity of 12,800 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 5,200 acre-feet. The dam stands at a height of 59 feet and spans a length of 1,300 feet, creating a surface area of 474 acres along the Beaverdam Run river.

Despite its crucial role in water management and recreation, Lunga Dam poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment and very high risk rating. The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 47 feet and is equipped with two valve outlet gates. The structure has not undergone any modifications in recent years, and its last inspection was conducted in June 2019, revealing significant maintenance needs. With its location in a high-risk area, it is essential for the responsible agencies to implement effective risk management measures and regular inspections to ensure the safety and integrity of Lunga Dam for both water resources and climate enthusiasts who frequent the area.

Overall, Lunga Dam stands as a vital infrastructure for water supply and recreational activities in Virginia, but its aging condition and high hazard potential require immediate attention and investment in repair and maintenance efforts. With the collaboration of federal agencies such as the US Navy and US Marine Corps, as well as local authorities, it is crucial to prioritize the safety of the dam and surrounding communities by addressing the identified risks and implementing necessary risk management measures. By safeguarding Lunga Dam, water resource and climate enthusiasts can continue to enjoy its benefits while ensuring the long-term sustainability of the structure and its operations.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

1300

Dam Height

59

River Or Stream

BEAVERDAM RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

474

Hydraulic Height

46

Drainage Area

10.8

Nid Storage

12800

Structural Height

49

Outlet Gates

Valve - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

59
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.