New Creek Dam No.16 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

New Creek Dam No.16, also known as Thunderhill Run, is a local government-owned structure in Mineral, West Virginia, designed by the USDA NRCS.


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Summary

Constructed in 1960, this earth dam stands at a height of 101 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along Thunderhill Run. With a storage capacity of 329 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding events.

Managed by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, New Creek Dam No.16 is regularly inspected to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. Its hazard potential is classified as high, but its condition assessment is deemed satisfactory. Although the dam has a moderate risk level, it meets regulatory guidelines and has emergency action plans in place to mitigate any potential risks to the community. As a key component in the flood risk reduction strategy for the region, this dam exemplifies the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience efforts.

With its critical role in flood mitigation and protection of the surrounding area, New Creek Dam No.16 stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of local government agencies and the USDA NRCS. As climate change continues to impact water resources and increase the frequency of extreme weather events, the maintenance and monitoring of structures like this dam are essential in safeguarding communities and infrastructure. By staying vigilant and proactive in risk management and emergency preparedness, stakeholders can ensure the continued effectiveness of New Creek Dam No.16 in mitigating flood risks and promoting resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

650

Dam Height

101

River Or Stream

THUNDERHILL RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

3

Hydraulic Height

95

Drainage Area

1.3

Nid Storage

329

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

101
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.