Polk Creek No.1 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Polk Creek No.7 Polk Creek No.8
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Polk Creek No.1 is a crucial water resource structure located in PRICETOWN, Lewis County, West Virginia.
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Summary
Constructed in 1964 by USDA NRCS, this dam is designed to mitigate flood risks along the POLK CREEK. With a height of 45.6 feet and a storage capacity of 120.7 acre-feet, Polk Creek No.1 plays a significant role in flood risk reduction in the area.
Managed by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, this earth dam is state-regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced to ensure its safety and effectiveness. The dam has a high hazard potential, but its condition was assessed as satisfactory during the last inspection in April 2013. Despite its age, Polk Creek No.1 continues to serve its primary purpose effectively, storing water during periods of heavy rainfall and protecting downstream communities from potential flooding events.
As a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts, Polk Creek No.1 stands as a testament to the importance of proactive dam management and maintenance. With a moderate risk assessment rating and a history of satisfactory performance, this structure showcases the critical role that infrastructure plays in safeguarding communities against the impacts of extreme weather events and changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
305 |
Dam Height |
45.6 |
River Or Stream |
POLK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8.2 |
Hydraulic Height |
42.6 |
Drainage Area |
0.27 |
Nid Storage |
120.7 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
46 |
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.
Polk Creek No.1