Upper Buffalo #33a Dam
Key Takeaway
Upper Buffalo #33a Dam is classified as high hazard in West Virginia. It was completed in 1992 and is 34 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 | 51 ft (taller than 56.6% in WV) |
| Dam Length | 393 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 503 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 51 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 6 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 9,249 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1992 (34 years old) |
| NID ID | WV04934 |
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
Local Government
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High Hazard 54 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Upper Buffalo #33a Dam?
Upper Buffalo #33a 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 Upper Buffalo #33a Dam?
Upper Buffalo #33a Dam is owned by information not available (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Upper Buffalo #33a Dam built?
Upper Buffalo #33a Dam was completed in 1992, making it 34 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 Upper Buffalo #33a Dam?
Upper Buffalo #33a 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 Upper Buffalo #33a Dam?
Upper Buffalo #33a Dam has a dam height of 51 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 Upper Buffalo #33a Dam last inspected?
Upper Buffalo #33a Dam was last inspected on June 30, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.