Bee Run Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Bee Run Dam, also known as Wallback Dam, is a state-owned structure located in Roane County, West Virginia.


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Summary

Completed in 2005, this earth dam stands at a height of 70 feet and serves primarily for recreational purposes. With a storage capacity of 475 acre-feet, it covers a surface area of 20 acres and is situated on the Bee Run river.

Managed by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, Bee Run Dam has been deemed to have a high hazard potential but is in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2010. Regular inspections are conducted, with the most recent one in March 2018, to ensure its safety and structural integrity. Despite its hazard potential, the dam provides a vital contribution to the local community for recreational activities and water resource management.

With its location in the scenic city of Newton, Bee Run Dam offers a tranquil setting for outdoor enthusiasts and climate advocates alike. The dam's importance extends beyond its recreational value, as it plays a crucial role in water resource management and flood control efforts in the region. As a significant part of the state's infrastructure, Bee Run Dam continues to be a focal point for both residents and visitors, showcasing the intersection of human engineering with the natural environment.

Year Completed

2005

Dam Length

550

Dam Height

70

River Or Stream

BEE RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Drainage Area

0.59

Nid Storage

475

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

70
       
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.