Bear Creek Dam
Key Takeaway
Bear Creek Dam is classified as significant hazard in Virginia. It was completed in 1939 and is 87 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 32 ft (taller than 74.1% in VA) |
| Dam Length | 180 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 508 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 52 acres |
| Drainage Area | 7 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1939 (87 years old) |
| NID ID | VA049002 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Department of Conservation & Recreation - Division of State Parks
State Government
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Unknown 23 ftClements Dam
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Significant Hazard 35 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bear Creek Dam?
Bear Creek Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Bear Creek Dam?
Bear Creek Dam is owned by Department of Conservation & Recreation - Division of State Parks (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Bear Creek Dam built?
Bear Creek Dam was completed in 1939, making it 87 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Bear Creek Dam?
Bear Creek Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Bear Creek Dam?
Bear Creek Dam has a dam height of 32 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 Bear Creek Dam last inspected?
Bear Creek Dam was last inspected on October 9, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.