Salem Fork #14 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Salem Fork No.15 Salem Fork No.11
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Salem Fork #14, also known as Dark Hollow, is a local government-owned earth dam located in Salem, West Virginia.
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Summary
Built in 1958 by USDA NRCS, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along TR Jacob's Run. With a dam height of 38.9 feet and a maximum storage capacity of 97.7 acre-feet, Salem Fork #14 plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding area from high water events.
Managed by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (DWWM), Salem Fork #14 is state-regulated and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition. The emergency action plan (EAP) for the dam was last revised in 2014, and the risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level. With a spillway width of 0 feet and uncontrolled outlet gates, Salem Fork #14 remains a vital piece of infrastructure for flood control in the region.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Salem Fork #14 to be a fascinating example of engineering ingenuity in managing flood risks. By understanding the design and operation of this earth dam, stakeholders can appreciate the efforts made to protect the community from potential inundation events. As climate change continues to impact precipitation patterns and water levels, the importance of structures like Salem Fork #14 in safeguarding against flooding becomes even more critical.
Year Completed |
1958 |
Dam Length |
240 |
Dam Height |
38.9 |
River Or Stream |
TR JACOB'S RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
30.9 |
Nid Storage |
97.7 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
39 |
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 #14