B & O Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Leer Slurry Cell Fairfax Pond
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
The B & O Dam in Preston, West Virginia, stands as a critical structure regulating the flow of the Little Racoon Creek.
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Summary
Completed in 1904, this concrete dam serves primarily for recreation but also plays a role in water supply. With a height of 41 feet and a storage capacity of 105 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 7 acres and serves a drainage area of 1.65 square miles.
Despite its historical significance, the B & O Dam poses a high hazard potential with a poor condition assessment. In 2013, a poor condition assessment was reported, indicating a need for maintenance and repairs. The dam's last inspection in 2017 also raised concerns, prompting the need for more frequent inspections and potential risk management measures to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure.
Local government ownership and state regulation by the Division of Water and Waste Management (DWWM) underscore the importance of safeguarding this dam for water resource management and climate resiliency in the region. With its rich history and critical role in recreation and water supply, the B & O Dam serves as a focal point for enthusiasts and stakeholders interested in the intersection of water resources and climate change adaptation.
Year Completed |
1904 |
Dam Length |
358 |
Dam Height |
41 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE RACOON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
41 |
Drainage Area |
1.65 |
Nid Storage |
105 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
41 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Three Fork Creek Nr Grafton
|
153cfs |
Tygart Valley R At Tygart Dam Nr Grafton
|
868cfs |
Cheat River At Albright
|
952cfs |
Tygart Valley River At Colfax
|
1080cfs |
Big Sandy Creek At Rockville
|
270cfs |
Deckers Creek At Morgantown
|
107cfs |
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.
B & O Dam