Bish Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Bish Dam in Virginia is a state-regulated structure designed for irrigation purposes, located in the Cumberland County.


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Summary

The dam is primarily used for irrigation and recreation, with a capacity of 67 acre-feet of water storage. Its construction type is earth, with a height of 20 feet and a hazard potential that is currently undetermined. While the condition of the dam has not been rated, it is subject to regular inspections by the state regulatory agency to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

Owned by an unspecified entity, Bish Dam stands as a vital water management infrastructure in the region, serving the local agricultural community with irrigation water. The dam's location in the Norfolk District offers a strategic advantage for water resource management in the area. Despite its undetermined hazard potential, the dam's structural integrity and ability to store water play a crucial role in supporting sustainable water usage and recreational activities in the region.

With its precise geographical coordinates of 37.479 latitude and -78.294 longitude, Bish Dam represents a key component of Virginia's water infrastructure. As climate change continues to impact water resources, structures like Bish Dam become increasingly important for ensuring water availability for irrigation and other purposes. As the state agency conducts regular inspections and enforcement measures, Bish Dam remains a vital asset for water resource management in the region.

Dam Height

20

Hydraulic Height

20

Nid Storage

67

Structural Height

20

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

20
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.