Seven Lakes Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Seven Lakes Dam, nestled in Stafford, Virginia, along the TR-Potomac Run, stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management in the face of climate change.


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Summary

This private dam, regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, serves primarily as a recreational spot, offering a peaceful escape for visitors seeking solace in nature. With a height of 16.5 feet and a storage capacity of 234 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in flood control and water storage in the region.

Despite its fair condition assessment, the dam poses a high hazard potential, underscoring the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the safety of surrounding communities. The last inspection in January 2020 revealed the need for ongoing monitoring and risk assessment, highlighting the intricate balance between harnessing the benefits of water resources for recreation and safeguarding against potential risks. As climate change continues to impact water availability and extreme weather events, the resilience of structures like Seven Lakes Dam becomes increasingly vital in mitigating the effects of natural disasters and preserving the delicate balance of the ecosystem.

As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, the story of Seven Lakes Dam serves as a reminder of the intricate interplay between human intervention and environmental stewardship. By understanding the challenges and opportunities posed by dams like Seven Lakes, we can work towards sustainable water management practices that prioritize both recreation and resilience in the face of a changing climate. The dam stands as a symbol of the delicate dance between human development and natural forces, urging us to tread lightly and thoughtfully in our quest to harness the power of water resources for the benefit of all.

Dam Length

400

Dam Height

16.5

River Or Stream

TR-Potomac Run

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27.3

Hydraulic Height

16.5

Drainage Area

1.47

Nid Storage

234

Structural Height

16.5

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

17
       
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.