Belleville Locks And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Belleville Locks and Dam, located in Longbottom, West Virginia, along the Ohio River, is a federal structure owned and managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

Completed in 1968, this concrete dam serves the primary purpose of navigation, with additional functions including hydroelectric power generation and recreation. It features a multi-arch core design, standing at a structural height of 130 feet and spanning a length of 1509 feet.

With a significant hazard potential and very high risk assessment, Belleville Locks and Dam is equipped with emergency action plans and inundation maps to address potential flood risks. The US Army Corps of Engineers continuously monitors and maintains the dam to manage flood risks effectively, engaging with local emergency managers and the public to ensure preparedness and response in case of a dam-related emergency. Despite the dam's capacity to store water and release it as needed, severe weather events could pose challenges, underscoring the importance of risk management measures and proactive maintenance efforts to uphold the dam's structural integrity and protect surrounding communities.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

1509

River Or Stream

OHIO RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

8900

Length Of Locks

1200

Hydraulic Height

50

Drainage Area

39350

Nid Storage

229200

Structural Height

130

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 8

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

130
       
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.