Bonaventure Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bonaventure Dam, also known as Chaney Creek Dam, is a private water supply structure located in Russell, Virginia.


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Summary

This Earth dam stands at a height of 52 feet and has a storage capacity of 2,240 acre-feet, serving the primary purpose of water supply. Situated on Chaney Creek, the dam covers a surface area of 88.8 acres and has a drainage area of 7.58 square miles.

Managed by the Mine Safety and Health Administration, Bonaventure Dam's hazard potential is currently classified as undetermined, with its condition assessment marked as not rated. Although the last Emergency Action Plan (EAP) revision was in 2010, the dam's EAP preparedness and compliance with guidelines are unknown. The dam's risk assessment, risk management measures, and inundation maps status are also unspecified, indicating a need for further evaluation and documentation to ensure safety and preparedness in times of emergency.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Bonaventure Dam presents an interesting case study in private dam ownership and management for water supply purposes. With its location in a rural area and limited regulatory oversight, there is a need for continued monitoring and assessment to ensure the safety and functionality of this vital infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions and potential hazards. Further research and evaluation are necessary to fully understand the risk profile and management measures associated with Bonaventure Dam, highlighting the importance of comprehensive dam safety protocols in safeguarding water resources and communities downstream.

Dam Height

52

River Or Stream

CHANEY CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

88.8

Hydraulic Height

52

Drainage Area

7.58

Nid Storage

2240

Structural Height

52

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

52
       
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.