Lake Sam Hill
Key Takeaway
Lake Sam Hill is classified as significant hazard in West Virginia. It was completed in 1958 and is 68 years old. Its primary use is recreation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 35 ft (taller than 35.9% in WV) |
| Dam Length | 450 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Normal Storage | 160 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 16 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1958 (68 years old) |
| NID ID | WV07504 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
BUCKSKIN BOY SCOUT COUNCIL
Private
Nearby Dams
Seneca Lake
Pocahontas, WV
Significant Hazard 23 ftMarlin Run No. 1
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High Hazard 71 ftBath County P S Lower Sediment Dam
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Low Hazard 27 ftBath County P S Middle Sediment Dam
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Low Hazard 26 ftBath County P S Upper Reservoir - Upper Dam
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High Hazard 460 ftBath County P S Lower Recreation Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 19 ftBath County P S Upper Recreation Pond Dam
Bath, VA
Low Hazard 26 ftBath County P S Lower Reservoir - Lower Dam
Bath, VA
High Hazard 135 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Sam Hill?
Lake Sam Hill is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Lake Sam Hill?
Lake Sam Hill is owned by BUCKSKIN BOY SCOUT COUNCIL (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Sam Hill built?
Lake Sam Hill was completed in 1958, making it 68 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Lake Sam Hill?
Lake Sam Hill serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Lake Sam Hill?
Lake Sam Hill has a dam height of 35 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.