Summit Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Summit Lake, located in Greenbrier, West Virginia, is a picturesque reservoir managed by the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources and owned by the Forest Service.


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Summary

Built in 1955 for recreational purposes, the earth dam stands at 34 feet high with a hydraulic height of 32 feet. With a storage capacity of 613 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 290 acre-feet, the reservoir covers a surface area of 39 acres and is fed by the Coats Run stream.

Despite its serene appearance, Summit Lake poses a high hazard potential due to its condition not being rated, making it crucial for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure public safety. The reservoir's spillway, controlled by a 4-foot-wide slide gate, has a maximum discharge capacity of 2,352 cubic feet per second. Although the dam has not been modified since 2019, its risk assessment remains very high, highlighting the importance of implementing effective risk management measures to mitigate any potential threats.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts visiting Summit Lake can enjoy a variety of recreational activities such as fishing and wildlife observation. As a vital water supply source for the local community, the reservoir serves as a valuable asset not only for leisure but also for sustaining the surrounding ecosystem. With its rich history and natural beauty, Summit Lake stands as a testament to the intersection of human ingenuity and environmental stewardship in preserving our precious water resources for future generations.

Years Modified

2019 - Other

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

1375

Dam Height

34

River Or Stream

COATS RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

39

Hydraulic Height

32

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

613

Structural Height

34

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

34
       
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.