Sherwan Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Sherwan Lake, located in Beverly, West Virginia, is a privately-owned reservoir primarily used for recreation.


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Summary

This man-made lake, completed in 1958, has a dam height of 41 feet and a hydraulic height of 39 feet, providing a storage capacity of 200 acre-feet. With a surface area of 9 acres and a drainage area of 0.07 square miles, Sherwan Lake offers a serene environment for water resource and climate enthusiasts to enjoy various activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking.

Managed by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, Sherwan Lake is regulated and inspected to ensure public safety, with a high hazard potential due to its size and location. Although the condition assessment is currently not rated, the lake continues to be a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The surrounding area offers picturesque views and opportunities to explore the Spring-fed river system that feeds the lake, making it an ideal spot for those interested in studying the intersection of water resources and climate in a recreational setting.

While the dam structure itself is primarily earth-based, the lake's purpose as a recreational reservoir underscores the importance of water management and conservation efforts in the region. With a normal storage capacity of 166 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 200 acre-feet, Sherwan Lake serves as a valuable resource for both local residents and visitors seeking to connect with nature and appreciate the beauty of the West Virginia landscape.

Year Completed

1958

Dam Length

355

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

SPRING FED

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9

Hydraulic Height

39

Drainage Area

0.07

Nid Storage

200

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

41
       
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.