Laurel Creek Lake No.1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Located in Mingo, West Virginia, Laurel Creek Lake No.1 is a state-owned rockfill dam completed in 1960 for the primary purpose of serving as a Fish and Wildlife Pond.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a height of 47 feet and a storage capacity of 785 acre-feet, this dam on Laurel Fork River covers a surface area of 27 acres and has a drainage area of 10.92 square miles. The dam is regulated by the Division of Water and Waste Management (DWWM) in West Virginia and is subject to regular inspections, with a hazard potential rated as high and a fair condition assessment.
The dam's normal storage capacity is 408 acre-feet, making it a significant resource for fish and wildlife conservation as well as recreational activities in the area. Despite its age, Laurel Creek Lake No.1 remains a vital water resource in the region, providing essential habitat for local flora and fauna. With a designated emergency action plan in place, the dam is prepared to address any potential risks and ensure the safety of surrounding communities in case of emergencies.
As an integral part of the water infrastructure in West Virginia, Laurel Creek Lake No.1 highlights the importance of maintaining and monitoring dams for both ecological and safety purposes. With its strategic location and purposeful design, this dam serves as a testament to the state's commitment to managing water resources effectively while also preserving natural habitats and promoting outdoor recreation opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
Year Completed |
1960 |
Dam Length |
325 |
Dam Height |
47 |
River Or Stream |
LAUREL FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
27 |
Hydraulic Height |
43 |
Drainage Area |
10.92 |
Nid Storage |
785 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
47 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tug Fork At Kermit
|
406cfs |
Tug Fork At Williamson
|
300cfs |
East Fork Twelvepole Creek Near Dunlow
|
13cfs |
Guyandotte River At Logan
|
1230cfs |
Guyandotte River At Man
|
968cfs |
Johns Creek Near Meta
|
22cfs |
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.
Laurel Creek Lake No.1