Preserving A Smaller and Sustainable Lake Accotink: What’s Next?

The Smaller Lake Accotink Preservation Feasibility Study aims to better understand the conditions within Accotink Creek and Lake Accotink, while exploring the best methods for preserving a 20 to 40-acre lake at a depth of 4 to 8 feet.

The County is working with an independent design and engineering firm to conduct the Smaller Lake Accotink Preservation Feasibility Study, which will evaluate potential smaller lake options. This study will be coordinated with and utilize results from the sedimentation rate study and the Lake Accotink dam assessment which are currently underway by different engineering consultant teams.

Map showing Lake Accotink Drainage Area

Current Studies to Shape the Future of Lake Accotink

Preservation Feasibility Study diagram showing steps that lead to Preferred Smaller Lake Accotink Alternative

Sedimentation Study

This study will develop an understanding of how much sediment flows into Lake Accotink from Accotink Creek and how much sediment leaves the lake under various storm events. These insights will guide future maintenance dredging efforts to facilitate a sustainable lake.

Dam Assessment

The dam needs to meet Virginia safety and regulatory standards as well as function as a retaining structure for Lake Accotink. This assessment will look at any repairs or updates needed to keep the dam functioning properly.

Preservation Feasibility Study

The feasibility study is exploring smaller lake options, ranging from 20 to 40 acres and 4 to 8 feet deep. It will also review costs, potential environmental impacts, regulatory permitting, and how often dredging would be required to maintain the smaller lake.

Black and white photo from 1940 showing workers constructing the Lake Accotink dam with wooden scaffolding along the waterfront

A Glimpse into Lake Accotink’s Past

Lake Accotink was built in 1940 by the U.S. Army as a freshwater supply for Camp Humphreys (now Fort Belvoir). Over the years, the 30-square-mile watershed (drainage area) that feeds into the lake became more developed prior to the implementation of modern stormwater management regulations, leading to increased runoff and erosion. This added a significant amount of sediment to the lake. While Fairfax County has dredged the lake multiple times, sediment continues to pose a threat to its future.

Next Steps

Preserving a smaller version of Lake Accotink offers a promising path forward, but it requires thorough planning and community input. As studies progress, we will continue working to balance environmental needs with recreation and cultural value.

Community members attending a Lake Accotink meeting

Get Involved

We want to hear from you! Stay tuned for community meetings and opportunities to share your thoughts on the future of Lake Accotink.

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Additional resources

Terms to know (when used in the context of Lake Accotink)

Sedimentation

A natural process in which sediments, such as sand, mud or other materials settle at the bottom of the lake over time.

Dredging

Removing excess sediment and other materials that have decreased the volume of the lake.

Preservation

Maintaining a smaller lake would preserve much of the aesthetic and recreational value that would continue to benefit visitors.

Stormwater

Water from rain or melted snow that runs off surfaces such as rooftops, lawns, paved streets, and highways, that eventually flows into drainage systems, rivers, streams, and lakes.

Upstream

The sections of a river or stream system flowing towards a point of interest (such as a lake, bridge, etc.). This is where sediment enters the river or stream system as it flows downstream and eventually settles in the lake.

Contact

For more information, please email Project Manager Turgay Dabak or call (703) 324-5500.