Beard Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Thomas Dam Gilliam Dam
Last Updated: December 8, 2025
Beard Dam, located in Bedford, Virginia, is a state-regulated structure managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation.
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Summary
This earth dam stands at a height of 29 feet and has a length of 250 feet, providing a storage capacity of 86.42 acre-feet. The dam serves a crucial water resource management role, with a normal storage capacity of 32 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.06 acres.
While the hazard potential of Beard Dam is classified as undetermined and its condition remains unrated, it undergoes regular inspections with a frequency of once per year. The emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and risk management measures for the dam are currently not specified. Despite these uncertainties, the dam continues to play a vital role in water management within the region, contributing to the overall environmental and climatic resilience of the area.
As Beard Dam operates under the Norfolk District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, it stands as a significant structure within Congressional District 05 of Virginia. The dam's precise year of completion, spillway type, and other technical details are not provided in the available data. With its strategic location and state-regulated status, Beard Dam represents a critical component in the sustainable water resource management efforts in the region, making it an essential focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
29 |
Surface Area |
4.06 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Nid Storage |
86.42 |
Structural Height |
29 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
29 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Roanoke River At Niagara
|
173cfs |
Back Creek Near Dundee
|
18cfs |
James River At Buchanan
|
588cfs |
Tinker Creek Near Daleville
|
4cfs |
Roanoke River At Roanoke
|
75cfs |
Goose Creek Near Huddleston
|
54cfs |
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.
Beard Dam