Polk Creek No.13 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Polk Creek No.6 Polk Creek No.4
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Polk Creek No.13, also known as Sassafras Run or Sugarloaf Dam, is a vital water resource structure located in Lewis, West Virginia.
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Summary
Constructed in 1967 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth dam stands at a height of 46 feet and serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Sassafras Run stream. With a storage capacity of 1356.9 acre-feet and a normal storage of 43.3 acre-feet, this dam covers a surface area of 79 acres and has a drainage area of 2.63 square miles.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the West Virginia Division of Water and Waste Management (DWWM), Polk Creek No.13 undergoes regular inspections with a hazard potential rated as high and a condition assessment deemed fair. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a maximum discharge capacity of 11353 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk assessment, Polk Creek No.13 plays a crucial role in mitigating flooding risks in the region and highlights the importance of proper water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
545 |
Dam Height |
46 |
River Or Stream |
SASSAFRAS RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
79 |
Hydraulic Height |
43 |
Drainage Area |
2.63 |
Nid Storage |
1356.9 |
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.13