Rockcliff Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Rockcliff, nestled in Hardy, West Virginia, is a Federal-owned Earth dam completed in 1968 with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

With a height of 66 feet and a hydraulic height of 58 feet, Rockcliff spans 277 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 526 acre-feet. The dam, located on Trout Run, serves multiple purposes including Fish and Wildlife Pond management, Flood Risk Reduction, and recreation activities.

Managed by the USDA Forest Service, Rockcliff boasts a Controlled spillway type and a Slide (sluice gate) outlet gate. Despite being rated as having a low hazard potential, the dam is classified as having a very high risk level, as of 2011. With a maximum discharge capacity of 7326 cubic feet per second, Rockcliff plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate will appreciate Rockcliff for its intricate design and multi-purpose functionality. The dam stands as a testament to sustainable water management practices and serves as a key recreational spot in the heart of West Virginia. With its rich history and strategic location on Trout Run, Rockcliff is a must-visit destination for those interested in the intersection of water resources and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

1968

Dam Length

277

Dam Height

66

River Or Stream

TROUT RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

58

Drainage Area

3

Nid Storage

526

Structural Height

66

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

66
       
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.