Embrey Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Embrey Dam, also known as Fredericksburg Dam, is a local government-owned structure located on the Rappahannock River in Stafford, Virginia.


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Summary

This buttress dam stands at a height of 35 feet and spans 1070 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 2400 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Embrey Dam is water supply, serving as a crucial resource for the surrounding area.

Although the hazard potential of Embrey Dam is currently undetermined and its condition remains unrated as of the last inspection in 2010, the dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in the region. With a normal storage capacity of 344 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1605 square miles, Embrey Dam contributes to the conservation and distribution of water for various purposes. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the vital role that this dam plays in ensuring water supply stability and management in the area.

As an integral part of the water infrastructure in Stafford, Virginia, Embrey Dam serves as a key component in the local water supply system. While its risk assessment and emergency preparedness measures are currently unspecified, the dam's presence and functionality underscore the importance of maintaining and monitoring water resources in the face of changing climate conditions. For those interested in water resource management and climate resilience, Embrey Dam represents a significant structure that warrants attention for its role in ensuring water security in the region.

Dam Length

1070

Dam Height

35

River Or Stream

Rappahannock River

Primary Dam Type

Buttress

Surface Area

31

Hydraulic Height

35

Drainage Area

1605

Nid Storage

2400

Structural Height

35

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

35
       
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.