Bell Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Bell Dam, located in Loudoun, Virginia, is a privately owned earth dam built on the TR-Little River.


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Summary

With a height of 25 feet and a length of 337 feet, the dam primarily serves recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 11.4 acres for outdoor activities. Managed by the Department of Conservation and Recreation, Bell Dam is regulated by the state and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and functionality.

Despite its undetermined hazard potential and unrated condition assessment, Bell Dam provides a tranquil setting for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy. With a storage capacity of 202.5 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 114 acre-feet, the dam offers a serene environment for recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and wildlife observation. Its location in a picturesque natural setting makes it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a peaceful escape.

As one of the many dams in Virginia, Bell Dam contributes to water resource management and provides a valuable recreational space for the local community. Its presence along the TR-Little River adds to the scenic beauty of the area and offers opportunities for environmental education and conservation efforts. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bell Dam symbolizes the intersection of human ingenuity and nature's beauty, showcasing the importance of sustainable practices in managing our natural resources.

Dam Length

337

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

TR-Little River

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

11.4

Hydraulic Height

25

Nid Storage

202.5

Structural Height

25

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

25
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.