Bendale Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Stonewall Jackson Dam Weston Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Bendale Dam, located in West Virginia along the West Fork River, was completed in 1924 and serves as a critical water supply infrastructure for the region.
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Summary
The dam is classified as a concrete gravity structure, standing at 14 feet high and spanning 158 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 180 acre-feet and a surface area of 28 acres, Bendale Dam plays a key role in regulating water flow and ensuring a stable water supply for the surrounding communities.
Managed by the public utility sector and regulated by the West Virginia Division of Water and Waste Management, Bendale Dam has a low hazard potential and is assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in 2014. The dam has a spillway capacity of 7900 cubic feet per second and is equipped with emergency action plans to mitigate any potential risks. With a history of safe operation and consistent maintenance, Bendale Dam continues to play a crucial role in water management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the significance of Bendale Dam lies in its contribution to sustainable water supply management and its role in supporting the local ecosystem. With a focus on water supply as the primary purpose, the dam stands as a testament to responsible infrastructure development and effective regulatory oversight. As climate change impacts water resources, Bendale Dam serves as a vital tool in adapting to evolving conditions and ensuring the resilience of water systems for future generations.
Year Completed |
1924 |
Dam Length |
158 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
WEST FORK RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
28 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
104 |
Nid Storage |
180 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
14 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Bendale Dam