Upper Salem Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Salem Fork #12 Salem Fork No.11
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Upper Salem Dam, also known as Salem Aux.
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Summary
or Upper Dog Run, is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Harrison, West Virginia. Owned by the local government, this earth dam stands at a height of 49 feet and was completed in 1970 with a primary purpose of flood risk reduction. With a storage capacity of 634 acre-feet, it plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding areas from potential flooding and ensuring water resource sustainability.
Managed by the Huntington District of the USACE, Upper Salem Dam has a high hazard potential and is subject to regular inspections to assess its condition and safety. Despite being rated as fair in condition assessment, the dam remains a significant asset for the community, providing not only flood protection but also recreational opportunities. With a normal storage capacity of 450 acre-feet and a surface area of 22 acres, the dam not only serves as a flood control structure but also as a scenic spot for outdoor activities.
Situated on Dog's Run, Upper Salem Dam is regulated by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection to ensure compliance with state standards and safety protocols. With its strategic location and key role in flood risk reduction, this dam stands as a testament to the importance of water resource management and climate resilience in safeguarding communities and their surroundings.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
420 |
Dam Height |
49 |
River Or Stream |
DOG'S RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
22 |
Hydraulic Height |
45 |
Nid Storage |
634 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
49 |
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.
Upper Salem Dam