Pohick Creek Dam #3
Key Takeaway
Pohick Creek Dam #3 is classified as high hazard in Virginia. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 38 ft (taller than 84.6% in VA) |
| Dam Length | 700 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 960 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 380 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 38 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| NID ID | VA059028 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Fairfax County Board of Supervisors
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Pohick Creek Dam #2
Fairfax, VA
High Hazard 39 ftKings Park West Section 18 Dam
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Significant Hazard 26 ftBurke Centre Section 11b Dam
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High Hazard 35 ftPohick Creek Dam #4
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High Hazard 42 ftBurke Hill Dam
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Unknown 18 ftPohick Creek Dam #7
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High Hazard 47 ftBurke Lake Dam
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High Hazard 50 ftFox Lair Regional Pond Embankment
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Unknown 27 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Pohick Creek Dam #3?
Pohick Creek Dam #3 is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Pohick Creek Dam #3?
Pohick Creek Dam #3 is owned by Fairfax County Board of Supervisors (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
What is the primary purpose of Pohick Creek Dam #3?
Pohick Creek Dam #3 serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Pohick Creek Dam #3?
Pohick Creek Dam #3 has a dam height of 38 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Pohick Creek Dam #3 last inspected?
Pohick Creek Dam #3 was last inspected on October 14, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.