Lower Big Bethel Dam
Key Takeaway
Lower Big Bethel Dam is classified as significant hazard in Virginia. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 16 ft (taller than 15.4% in VA) |
| Dam Length | 2,439 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 830 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 677 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 102 acres |
| Drainage Area | 8 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,650 cfs |
| Year Modified | 1942 |
| NID ID | VA199002 |
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
USAF ACC
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Upper Big Bethel Dam
Hampton, VA
Significant Hazard 18 ftCrystal Lake Dam
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Unknown 9 ftYork Meadows Dam
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Unknown 15 ftHarwood'S Mill Dam
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High Hazard 27 ftColiseum Lake Dam
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Low Hazard 10 ftLion'S Bridge Dam
Newport News, VA
Significant Hazard 14 ftSluice Dam
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Unknown 16 ftKerry Lake Dam
Newport News, VA
Low Hazard 16 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lower Big Bethel Dam?
Lower Big Bethel 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 Lower Big Bethel Dam?
Lower Big Bethel Dam is owned by USAF ACC (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
What is the primary purpose of Lower Big Bethel Dam?
Lower Big Bethel Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lower Big Bethel Dam?
Lower Big Bethel Dam has a dam height of 16 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 Lower Big Bethel Dam last inspected?
Lower Big Bethel Dam was last inspected on August 18, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.