Bedford - Canal Embankment
Bedford - Canal Embankment is a dam located in Amherst County, Virginia, built in 1850. It carries a Low hazard potential classification and has a satisfactory condition assessment.
About Bedford - Canal Embankment
The primary purpose of Bedford - Canal Embankment is hydroelectric. The dam generates hydroelectric power by channeling water through turbines, converting the energy of flowing water into electricity. The dam is owned by City Of Bedford (local government). It impounds the James River.
The dam stands 18 feet tall and stretches 1,200 feet across, creates a reservoir covering 57 acres, and has a maximum storage capacity of 350 acre-feet. Completed in 1850, the structure is one of the older dams in the region, with over a century and a half of service.
This dam has a low hazard potential classification, meaning that failure would cause minimal damage, limited primarily to the dam owner's property, with no expected loss of life. Its condition is rated satisfactory, indicating no existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. The most recent inspection on record was 06/25/2019.
Search for dams near your address to see all dams in your area with hazard classifications and safety data.
Location
| State | Virginia |
| County | Amherst |
| Nearest City | None |
| River/Stream | James River |
| Coordinates | 37.57473, -79.37331 |
Physical Characteristics
| NID Height | 18 ft |
| Dam Height | 18 ft |
| Dam Length | 1,200 ft |
| Year Completed | 1850 (176 years old) |
Storage & Hydraulics
| NID Storage | 350 acre-ft |
| Max Storage | 350 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 350 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 57 acres |
| Spillway Type | Uncontrolled |
Ownership & Safety
| Purpose | Hydroelectric |
| Owner | City of Bedford |
| Owner Type | Local Government |
| Hazard Classification | Low |
| Condition Assessment | Satisfactory |
| Last Inspection | 06/25/2019 |
| Emergency Action Plan | Not Required |
Identifiers
| NID ID | VA009014 |
| Federal ID | VA009014S001 |
| More Info | State Dam Safety Program |