Big Cherry Old Dam, also known as Big Cherry Underwater Dam, is a gravity-type structure located in Wise, Virginia.
Wind
Humidity
This dam serves as a crucial water supply source for the area, with a storage capacity of 1630 acre-feet and a surface area of 76 acres. Situated on the South Fork Powell River, the dam stands at a height of 43 feet and has a length of 225 feet, making it a significant part of the local water infrastructure.
Although the dam's hazard potential is currently listed as "Undetermined" and its condition is "Not Rated", the last inspection conducted in 2003 revealed no major issues. The dam is not regulated by the state and does not have a designated state agency overseeing its maintenance and operation. Despite its age and lack of recent modifications, Big Cherry Old Dam continues to play a vital role in providing water to the surrounding community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Big Cherry Old Dam represents a historical piece of infrastructure that highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring our water supply systems. As discussions around dam safety and resilience continue to gain importance, understanding the role of dams like Big Cherry Old Dam in ensuring water security becomes increasingly relevant in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Dam Length |
225 |
Dam Height |
43 |
River Or Stream |
SOUTH FORK POWELL RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
76 |
Hydraulic Height |
43 |
Drainage Area |
5.5 |
Nid Storage |
1630 |
Structural Height |
43 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
43 |
Powell River At Big Stone Gap
|
149cfs |
Guest River At Coeburn
|
20cfs |
Clinch River At Speers Ferry
|
1320cfs |
N F Holston River Near Gate City
|
679cfs |
Poor Fork At Cumberland
|
103cfs |
North Fork Kentucky River At Whitesburg
|
25cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
High Knob
|
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High Knob Recreation Area
|
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Flag Rock Recreation Area
|
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Bark Camp
|
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Bark Camp Recreation Area Campground
|
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Natural Tunnel State Park
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