N&S Mill Creek No. 3 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
N&S Mill Creek No.
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Summary
3 Dam, also known as Rough Run Dam, is a vital structure located in Dorcas, West Virginia, designed by the USDA NRCS. Completed in 1982, this earth dam stands at a height of 89 feet and spans a length of 630 feet, providing flood risk reduction for the surrounding area. With a storage capacity of 642 acre-feet and a drainage area of 2.05 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, the dam is inspected every two years to ensure its structural integrity. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed as being in fair condition. In the event of an emergency, the dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates serve as the primary means for managing water flow. With a moderate risk rating, the dam's risk management measures are continually reviewed to ensure the safety of the surrounding community.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, N&S Mill Creek No. 3 Dam presents an intriguing case study in flood risk reduction and water management. As one of the critical infrastructure projects in Grant County, this dam highlights the importance of effective regulation, maintenance, and emergency preparedness in safeguarding communities from potential water-related disasters. With its history, design details, and risk assessment information, the dam serves as a fascinating example of how modern engineering practices intersect with environmental stewardship to protect both people and resources.
Year Completed |
1982 |
Dam Length |
630 |
Dam Height |
89 |
River Or Stream |
ROUGH RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Drainage Area |
2.05 |
Nid Storage |
642 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
89 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
N&S Mill Creek No. 3 Dam
South Mill Creek Near Mozer
Shreve Store To Big Bend Campground
Big Bend Campground To Canyon Exit (Just Prior To Confluence With North Branch)
Jake Hill Road Bridge To Shreve Store
High Ridge Run To Outskirts Of Hopeville
Canyon Exit To Spruce Knob-Seneca Rocks Nra Boundary