Polk Creek No.7
Key Takeaway
Polk Creek No.7 is classified as high hazard in West Virginia. It was completed in 1967 and is 59 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 52 ft (taller than 57.5% in WV) |
| Dam Length | 480 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 762 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 37 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 38 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 6,580 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1967 (59 years old) |
| NID ID | WV04105 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
WEST FORK SCD
Local Government
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High Hazard 45 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Polk Creek No.7?
Polk Creek No.7 is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Polk Creek No.7?
Polk Creek No.7 is owned by WEST FORK SCD (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Polk Creek No.7 built?
Polk Creek No.7 was completed in 1967, making it 59 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 Polk Creek No.7?
Polk Creek No.7 serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Polk Creek No.7?
Polk Creek No.7 has a dam height of 52 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.
When was Polk Creek No.7 last inspected?
Polk Creek No.7 was last inspected on April 15, 2013. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.