Upper Salem Dam
Key Takeaway
Upper Salem Dam is classified as high hazard in West Virginia. It was completed in 1970 and is 56 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 | 49 ft (taller than 54.6% in WV) |
| Dam Length | 420 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 634 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 450 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 22 acres |
| Year Completed | 1970 (56 years old) |
| NID ID | WV03301 |
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
CITY OF SALEM
Local Government
Nearby Dams
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High Hazard 49 ftSalem Fork No.11
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High Hazard 26 ftSalem Fork No.15
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High Hazard 26 ftSalem Fork #14
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High Hazard 39 ftSalem Fork No.9
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High Hazard 35 ftSalem Fork #13
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High Hazard 26 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Upper Salem Dam?
Upper Salem 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 Salem Dam?
Upper Salem Dam is owned by CITY OF SALEM (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Upper Salem Dam built?
Upper Salem Dam was completed in 1970, making it 56 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 Salem Dam?
Upper Salem Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Upper Salem Dam?
Upper Salem Dam has a dam height of 49 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 Salem Dam last inspected?
Upper Salem Dam was last inspected on May 9, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.