Wilkes Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Ferguson Farms Dam Beard Dam
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Wilkes Dam, located in Bedford, Virginia, is a crucial water resource structure regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 26.25 feet, with a storage capacity of 50.51 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 36.4 acre-feet. Despite its importance, the condition assessment for Wilkes Dam is currently rated as "Not Rated," with an undetermined hazard potential.
The dam's primary purpose and specific completion year are not listed, but its presence highlights the vital role of infrastructure in managing water resources and mitigating the impacts of climate change. With a latitude of 37.3321 and longitude of -79.6074, Wilkes Dam is positioned within the Norfolk District, further emphasizing its significance for water management in the region. As enthusiasts of water resources and climate, understanding the state-regulated status, inspection, and enforcement of this dam underscores the importance of sustainable infrastructure to meet the challenges of a changing climate.
While details such as dam length, spillway type, and inspection frequency are not provided, the data on Wilkes Dam invites further exploration and consideration of its role in water management. As advocates for resilient water infrastructure and climate adaptation, staying informed about the condition and management of structures like Wilkes Dam is essential to ensure the safety and sustainability of water resources in the face of evolving climate challenges.
Dam Height |
26.25 |
Surface Area |
4.09 |
Hydraulic Height |
26.25 |
Nid Storage |
50.51 |
Structural Height |
26.25 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
26 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Otter River Near Bedford
|
53cfs |
Goose Creek Near Huddleston
|
54cfs |
James River At Buchanan
|
588cfs |
Roanoke River At Niagara
|
173cfs |
Back Creek Near Dundee
|
18cfs |
Big Otter River Near Evington
|
95cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Wilkes Dam