Cowen B&O Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

The Cowen B&O Dam, also known as B&O Pond, is a local government-owned structure located in Cowen, West Virginia.


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Summary

This dam, situated on Big Ditch Run, serves primarily as a recreational area with a storage capacity of 75.7 acre-feet. With a height of 14 feet, the dam is classified as an Earth-type structure and has been deemed to be in fair condition based on a 2014 assessment.

Operated and regulated by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection's Division of Water and Waste Management, the Cowen B&O Dam is subject to state jurisdiction and oversight. Although the hazard potential is currently labeled as undetermined, the dam has undergone inspections and meets state permitting and enforcement requirements. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment measures are not specified, suggesting a potential area for improvement in ensuring the safety and stability of the structure.

As a focal point for recreational activities in the area, the Cowen B&O Dam plays a significant role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. With its location in the picturesque surroundings of Webster County, its upkeep and maintenance are crucial for ensuring the safety of residents and visitors alike. Moving forward, continued monitoring and risk assessment measures will be essential in safeguarding the dam's integrity and functionality for future generations to enjoy.

Dam Height

14

River Or Stream

BIG DITCH RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

75.7

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

14
       
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.