Salem Fork No.11a Reservoir Report
Nearby: Salem Fork No.11 Salem Fork No.15
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Salem Fork No.11a is a vital earth dam located in Harrison, West Virginia, designed by the USDA NRCS to primarily reduce flood risks along the Salem Fork river.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Constructed in 1954, this dam stands at a height of 23.8 feet, with a hydraulic height of 21.8 feet, and a length of 333 feet. It has a maximum storage capacity of 77 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 8 acres, serving as a crucial structure in the area's flood risk reduction efforts.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, Salem Fork No.11a is classified as having a high hazard potential, yet is currently deemed to be in satisfactory condition. The dam's last inspection in November 2017 revealed its structural integrity to be sound, with an inspection frequency of every two years. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, the dam's emergency action plan and inundation maps are yet to be fully developed, highlighting the ongoing need for comprehensive risk management measures to ensure the safety and protection of the surrounding community and environment.
With its significant contribution to flood risk reduction in the region, Salem Fork No.11a serves as a critical infrastructure that requires continual monitoring and maintenance to uphold its functionality and safeguard against potential hazards. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the condition and management of such essential structures is crucial for promoting resilience and sustainability in the face of changing environmental conditions and increasing risks posed by extreme weather events.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
333 |
Dam Height |
23.8 |
River Or Stream |
SALEM FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
21.8 |
Drainage Area |
0.29 |
Nid Storage |
77 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
24 |
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.
Salem Fork No.11a