Warm Springs No. 9 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Warm Springs No.


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Summary

9 is a key water resource structure located in Berkeley Springs, West Virginia, on the Warm Spring Run. Owned by the local government and regulated by the West Virginia Division of Water and Waste Management, this earth dam was designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1956 for flood risk reduction purposes. With a height of 32 feet and a storage capacity of 53 acre-feet, Warm Springs No. 9 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding.

Despite its high hazard potential, Warm Springs No. 9 has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with the last inspection conducted in October 2014. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, and has a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) status for this structure is not specified, but it meets regulatory guidelines for inspection, permitting, and enforcement. With its strategic location and vital role in flood risk reduction, Warm Springs No. 9 stands as a testament to effective water resource management in West Virginia.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Warm Springs No. 9 offers a fascinating case study in dam construction and management. From its design by the USDA NRCS to its regulatory oversight by the West Virginia Division of Water and Waste Management, this structure exemplifies the intricate network of agencies and professionals involved in maintaining critical infrastructure. With its impressive height, storage capacity, and historic significance, Warm Springs No. 9 serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to balance water resource utilization and environmental protection in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1956

Dam Length

305

Dam Height

32

River Or Stream

WARM SPRING RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1

Hydraulic Height

28

Drainage Area

1.84

Nid Storage

53

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

32
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.