Salerno Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Harrison, West Virginia, the Salerno Dam, also known as Mary Rose Salerno Lake, is a private recreational earth dam completed in 1965.


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Summary

With a height of 30 feet and a hydraulic height of 28 feet, the dam boasts a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2 acres. Situated on the UP BINGAMON CK river, the dam serves as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts looking to engage in recreational activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking.

Despite its primary purpose being recreation, the dam's hazard potential is currently listed as undetermined, with a condition assessment of "Not Rated." The dam is regulated by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (DWWM) and undergoes regular state inspections and enforcement measures to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations. While the dam has not been rated for risk assessment or emergency preparedness, its location in a picturesque setting makes it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts in the region.

With a congressman representing the area, David B. McKinley (R), the Salerno Dam stands as a testament to both the recreational opportunities and the importance of proper maintenance and oversight of water resources. As water resource and climate enthusiasts flock to this scenic spot in Harrison, West Virginia, it serves as a reminder of the balance between enjoying nature's beauty and ensuring the safety and sustainability of our water infrastructure for future generations.

Year Completed

1965

Dam Length

190

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

UP BINGAMON CK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

2

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

20

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

30
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.