Upper Buffalo No.22 Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Upper Buffalo No.22 Dam, also known as Big Run Dam, is a critical infrastructure managed by a local government in Marion, West Virginia.
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Summary
Built in 1975 by the USDA NRCS, this Earth dam stands at 66 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 57 feet, serving the primary purpose of flood risk reduction along the Big Run river. With a storage capacity of 722 acre-feet and a drainage area of 1.65 square miles, this dam plays a crucial role in safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding events.
The dam's condition was last assessed in 2015 and was deemed satisfactory, despite its high hazard potential. The inspection frequency is set at every two years to ensure its continued safety and functionality. While the dam has an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, it lacks associated locks, emphasizing its focus on flood risk reduction rather than navigation. The risk assessment for Upper Buffalo No.22 Dam indicates a moderate level of risk, with measures in place to manage and mitigate potential hazards.
In the event of an emergency, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and readiness remain unclear, highlighting the need for updated protocols and guidelines. With David B. McKinley (R) as the representative for the area, ongoing monitoring and maintenance of Upper Buffalo No.22 Dam are essential to uphold its critical role in protecting the community and environment from flooding risks.
Year Completed |
1975 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
66 |
River Or Stream |
BIG RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
57 |
Drainage Area |
1.65 |
Nid Storage |
722 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
66 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Buffalo Creek At Barrackville
|
25cfs |
West Fork River At Enterprise
|
398cfs |
Tygart Valley River At Colfax
|
1380cfs |
Deckers Creek At Morgantown
|
43cfs |
Dunkard Creek At Shannopin
|
57cfs |
West Fork River Near Mount Clare
|
271cfs |
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.
Upper Buffalo No.22 Dam
Whetstone Rn Nr Mannington