Lower Salem Ws Reservoir Report
Nearby: Upper Salem Dam Salem Fork #12
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Lower Salem Ws, also known as Lower Dog Run, is a key water resource located in Salem, West Virginia.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Managed by the local government, this dam on Salem Fork was completed in 1955 and stands at a height of 49 feet, with a maximum storage capacity of 441 acre-feet. The dam serves multiple purposes and is primarily of the earth type, with a satisfactory condition assessment as of April 2016.
With a high hazard potential, Lower Salem Ws is subject to regular inspections, with the last one conducted in May 2017. The dam is regulated by the West Virginia Department of Natural Resources and falls under state jurisdiction for permitting, inspection, and enforcement. Despite its age, Lower Salem Ws continues to provide essential water management functions for the local community, demonstrating the importance of maintaining and monitoring critical infrastructure in the face of evolving climate conditions. Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Lower Salem Ws to be a fascinating example of sustainable water management practices in action.
Year Completed |
1955 |
Dam Length |
315 |
Dam Height |
49 |
River Or Stream |
SALEM FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
13 |
Hydraulic Height |
42 |
Nid Storage |
441 |
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.
Lower Salem Ws