South Fork No.14 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

South Fork No.14 is a key flood risk reduction structure located in Pendleton, West Virginia, designed by USDA NRCS in 1971.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at an impressive height of 72.5 feet, with a hydraulic height of 68.5 feet, providing critical protection along the Broad Run river. With a storage capacity of 1916 acre-feet and a normal storage of 136 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the area.

Maintained by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, the dam is classified as having a high hazard potential but is currently in satisfactory condition as of the last inspection in April 2015. The emergency action plan for South Fork No.14 is up to date, ensuring that necessary measures are in place in case of any unforeseen events. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, this dam is closely monitored and managed to ensure the safety of the surrounding community and environment, making it a vital piece of infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts to keep an eye on.

South Fork No.14, under the jurisdiction of the DWWM and with support from the Natural Resources Conservation Service, stands as a testament to effective flood risk reduction infrastructure in West Virginia. With a rich history of service since its completion in 1971, this dam continues to play a crucial role in protecting the local area from potential flooding events. Its design, construction, and maintenance reflect a commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community, making it a noteworthy site for those interested in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

72.5

River Or Stream

BROAD RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

54.3

Hydraulic Height

68.5

Nid Storage

1916

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

73
       
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.