Lake Of Eden Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 7, 2025

Lake of Eden, also known as Harless Fishing Lake, is a privately-owned reservoir located in Cabell, West Virginia.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1971, stands at 25 feet high and serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet and a surface area of 3 acres, the lake offers a serene escape for fishing enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Despite its picturesque setting, Lake of Eden poses a high hazard potential due to its poor condition assessment. The dam's inspection frequency is every two years, with the last assessment conducted in July 2015. The regulatory oversight of the dam falls under the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, ensuring that the necessary safety measures are in place to mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation.

While Lake of Eden may be a hidden gem for outdoor recreation, its deteriorating condition raises concerns about its long-term safety and resilience. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, proactive measures must be taken to address the dam's maintenance and potential upgrades to ensure the safety of both the surrounding communities and the environment. Enthusiasts and stakeholders alike must advocate for the necessary resources and investments to preserve this natural oasis for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

600

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

GOOSE RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

24

Drainage Area

0.01

Nid Storage

20

Hazard Potential

High

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.