South Fork No. 5 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

South Fork No.


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Summary

5 Dam, located in Milam, West Virginia, is a vital flood risk reduction structure designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1965. This earth dam stands at 107 feet in height with a hydraulic height of 89 feet, providing necessary protection for the surrounding area along the Radabaugh River. With a storage capacity of 690 acre-feet and a surface area of 20 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow during periods of high discharge, with a maximum discharge rate of 17,959 cubic feet per second.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently in fair condition, as assessed in 2014. Regular inspections are conducted every two years to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The dam's Emergency Action Plan (EAP) was last revised in 2018, indicating ongoing efforts to maintain the safety and efficiency of this important water resource infrastructure. South Fork No. 5 Dam serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts between local government and the Natural Resources Conservation Service in safeguarding the community against potential flooding events in Hardy County, West Virginia.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

625

Dam Height

107

River Or Stream

RADABAUGH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

89

Nid Storage

690

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

107
       
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.