Poplar Fork Dam
Key Takeaway
Poplar Fork Dam is classified as significant hazard in West Virginia. It was completed in 1961 and is 65 years old. Its primary use is water supply. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 19 ft (taller than 9% in WV) |
| Dam Length | 476 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 105 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 36 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 5 acres |
| Drainage Area | 10 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1961 (65 years old) |
| NID ID | WV07917 |
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
SOUTH PUTNAM PSD
Local Government
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High Hazard 223 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Poplar Fork Dam?
Poplar Fork Dam 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 Poplar Fork Dam?
Poplar Fork Dam is owned by SOUTH PUTNAM PSD (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Poplar Fork Dam built?
Poplar Fork Dam was completed in 1961, making it 65 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 Poplar Fork Dam?
Poplar Fork Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Poplar Fork Dam?
Poplar Fork Dam has a dam height of 19 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 Poplar Fork Dam last inspected?
Poplar Fork Dam was last inspected on May 3, 2016. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.