Elk-Two Mile No.12 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 9, 2025
Elk-Two Mile No.12 is a significant Earth dam located in Charleston, West Virginia, designed by the USDA NRCS and completed in 1975 for the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Elk-Two Mile river.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
The dam stands at an impressive 63 feet high, with a hydraulic height of 54 feet, providing a storage capacity of 220.2 acre-feet and a normal storage of 16 acre-feet. Despite its age, the dam is considered to be in fair condition with a high hazard potential, indicating the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its continued effectiveness in flood control.
The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a maximum discharge capacity of 4044.5 cubic feet per second to manage excess water flow during heavy rainfall events. The dam's stone core and rock-soil foundations contribute to its structural integrity, while its 11.6-acre surface area and 170-foot length provide ample coverage along the Elk-Two Mile river. The dam is regulated by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection and undergoes regular inspections to assess its condition and identify any necessary risk management measures to mitigate potential hazards.
Overall, Elk-Two Mile No.12 serves as a vital infrastructure asset in the region's flood risk reduction efforts, highlighting the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety and effectiveness of water resource management systems. Its location in Kanawha County, West Virginia, underscores the significance of sustainable water management practices in mitigating the impact of climate change on local communities and ecosystems. As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates, it is essential to recognize the critical role that structures like Elk-Two Mile No.12 play in protecting our environment and enhancing resilience in the face of changing weather patterns.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
170 |
Dam Height |
63 |
River Or Stream |
ELK-TWO MILE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
11.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
54 |
Nid Storage |
220.2 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
63 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Kanawha River At Charleston
|
4570cfs |
Pocatalico River At Sissonville
|
48cfs |
Elk River At Queen Shoals
|
711cfs |
Big Coal River At Ashford
|
234cfs |
Coal River At Tornado
|
391cfs |
Gauley River Above Belva
|
1190cfs |
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.
Elk-Two Mile No.12
Daniel Boone Park
Walt Powell Park
Cato Park
Ruffner Memorial Park
Blackwell Field