Lake Riley Reservoir Report
Nearby: Murphy Creek Dam Right Fork Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Lake Riley, located in Lewis County, West Virginia, is a private water resource managed for recreational purposes.
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Summary
The earth dam, completed in 1948, stands at a height of 28 feet and holds a maximum storage capacity of 93 acre-feet. The reservoir covers an area of 8 acres and is fed by Murphy Creek, providing a serene setting for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking.
Despite its fair condition assessment as of 2015, Lake Riley's hazard potential remains undetermined, highlighting the need for ongoing maintenance and monitoring. The state regulatory agency, DWWM, oversees permitting, inspection, and enforcement to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam structure. While the dam has not been modified in recent years, it is crucial for stakeholders to stay informed and prepared for any potential risks or emergencies that may arise.
With its picturesque location and recreational opportunities, Lake Riley serves as a valuable water resource for the community. As climate change continues to impact water availability and quality, the preservation and responsible management of this reservoir are essential. By promoting sustainability and resilience in water resource management practices, Lake Riley can continue to provide a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and wildlife alike in the face of changing environmental conditions.
Year Completed |
1948 |
Dam Length |
250 |
Dam Height |
28 |
River Or Stream |
MURPHY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
8 |
Hydraulic Height |
24 |
Drainage Area |
0.47 |
Nid Storage |
93 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
28 |
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.
Lake Riley