Polk Creek No.4 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Polk Creek No.5 Polk Creek No.13
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Polk Creek No.4, located in Lewis County, West Virginia, is a crucial local government-owned structure designed by the USDA NRCS for flood risk reduction along the Polk Creek.
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Summary
This earth-type dam, completed in 1964, stands at a height of 53.2 feet and has a storage capacity of 118.2 acre-feet. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, it is classified as having a high hazard potential, yet its condition assessment as of 2013 was deemed satisfactory.
Managed by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection's Division of Water and Waste Management (DWWM), Polk Creek No.4 is regulated and permitted by the state, with regular inspections conducted to ensure its operational integrity. The dam's spillway, classified as uncontrolled, has a width of 0 feet, and its outlet gates also operate in an uncontrolled manner. Although the dam lacks a detailed emergency action plan (EAP), its risk management measures remain unspecified, suggesting room for improvement in emergency preparedness protocols.
Despite its age, Polk Creek No.4 continues to play a vital role in mitigating flood risks in the region, under the oversight of governmental agencies. As a noteworthy structure within the Huntington District, its performance and maintenance are closely monitored to uphold public safety and protect the surrounding community from potential inundation events. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Polk Creek No.4 serves as a compelling case study in the ongoing efforts to balance flood control needs with environmental conservation in West Virginia.
Year Completed |
1964 |
Dam Length |
275 |
Dam Height |
53.2 |
River Or Stream |
POLK CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7.4 |
Hydraulic Height |
46.2 |
Drainage Area |
0.22 |
Nid Storage |
118.2 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
53 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.4