Located in Nitro, West Virginia, Blake's Creek Site No.7, also known as Ridenour Lake Dam, is a crucial flood risk reduction structure designed by the USDA NRCS.
Wind
Humidity
Completed in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 46 feet and spans 818 feet in length, with a maximum storage capacity of 1148 acre-feet. The dam sits on the Ritenour Lake, covering a surface area of 59.2 acres and serving a drainage area of 2.44 square miles.
Managed by the local government, Blake's Creek Site No.7 is regulated by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (DWWM) and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity. With a high hazard potential due to its location, this dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition and is equipped with uncontrolled spillways and outlet gates. The dam serves multiple purposes, including flood risk reduction and recreation, making it a vital asset for the community.
Despite its moderate risk assessment, Blake's Creek Site No.7 remains a critical infrastructure for water resource management in Kanawha County, West Virginia. With a history of safe operation and maintenance, this dam continues to play a key role in protecting the local area from potential flood events. The dedication of the Natural Resources Conservation Service and state regulatory agencies ensures the ongoing safety and functionality of this essential water resource structure.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
818 |
Dam Height |
46 |
River Or Stream |
RITENOUR LAKE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
59.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
42 |
Drainage Area |
2.44 |
Nid Storage |
1148 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
46 |
Coal River At Tornado
|
391cfs |
Kanawha River At Charleston
|
4570cfs |
Hurricane Creek At Hurricane
|
12cfs |
Pocatalico River At Sissonville
|
48cfs |
Big Coal River At Ashford
|
234cfs |
Elk River At Queen Shoals
|
711cfs |