Upper Big Bethel Dam
Key Takeaway
Upper 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 | 18 ft (taller than 20.3% in VA) |
| Dam Length | 950 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 1.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.2K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 260 acres |
| Drainage Area | 7 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 420 cfs |
| Year Modified | 1918 |
| NID ID | VA199011 |
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
Lower Big Bethel Dam
Hampton, VA
Significant Hazard 16 ftYork Meadows Dam
York, VA
Unknown 15 ftCrystal Lake Dam
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Unknown 9 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 Upper Big Bethel Dam?
Upper 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 Upper Big Bethel Dam?
Upper 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 Upper Big Bethel Dam?
Upper Big Bethel 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 Upper Big Bethel Dam?
Upper Big Bethel Dam has a dam height of 18 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 Upper Big Bethel Dam last inspected?
Upper Big Bethel Dam was last inspected on August 18, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.