Big Bear Lake
Key Takeaway
Big Bear Lake is classified as significant hazard in West Virginia. It was completed in 1972 and is 54 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 66 ft (taller than 69.6% in WV) |
| Dam Length | 925 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 509 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 366 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 35 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1972 (54 years old) |
| NID ID | WV07720 |
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
ALYESKA, INCORPORATED
Private
Nearby Dams
Appalachian Lake
Preston, WV
Significant Hazard 15 ftLower Glade Lake Dam
Preston, WV
Significant HazardUpper Glade Lake Dam
Preston, WV
High HazardAlpine Lake
Preston, WV
High Hazard 35 ftBruceton Mills Dam
Preston, WV
Low Hazard 20 ftKemp Farm Pond
Garrett, MD
Low Hazard 28 ftAdventure Sports Center Pond
Garrett, MD
Low Hazard 27 ftDeep Creek Dam
Garrett, MD
High Hazard 85 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Bear Lake?
Big Bear Lake 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 Big Bear Lake?
Big Bear Lake is owned by ALYESKA, INCORPORATED (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Bear Lake built?
Big Bear Lake was completed in 1972, making it 54 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 Big Bear Lake?
Big Bear Lake 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 Big Bear Lake?
Big Bear Lake has a dam height of 66 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 Big Bear Lake last inspected?
Big Bear Lake was last inspected on December 21, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.