South Fork No. 5 Dam
Key Takeaway
South Fork No. 5 Dam is classified as high hazard in West Virginia. It was completed in 1965 and is 61 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 | 107 ft (taller than 86.8% in WV) |
| Dam Length | 625 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 690 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 40 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 20 acres |
| Max Discharge | 17,959 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1965 (61 years old) |
| NID ID | WV03106 |
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
POTOMAC VALLEY SCD
Local Government
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High Hazard 123 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of South Fork No. 5 Dam?
South Fork No. 5 Dam 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 South Fork No. 5 Dam?
South Fork No. 5 Dam is owned by POTOMAC VALLEY SCD (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was South Fork No. 5 Dam built?
South Fork No. 5 Dam was completed in 1965, making it 61 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 South Fork No. 5 Dam?
South Fork No. 5 Dam 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 South Fork No. 5 Dam?
South Fork No. 5 Dam has a dam height of 107 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 South Fork No. 5 Dam last inspected?
South Fork No. 5 Dam was last inspected on April 22, 2014. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.