South Fork No. 9 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

South Fork No.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

9 is a significant earth dam located in Fort Seybert, West Virginia, along the Dice Run river. Built in 1963 by the USDA NRCS, this dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction in the area. Standing at a height of 99.2 feet with a hydraulic height of 85.2 feet, it has a storage capacity of 949 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 54 acre-feet.

Managed by the Natural Resources Conservation Service, South Fork No. 9 has a fair condition assessment as of the last inspection in April 2015. With a high hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment, this dam falls under state jurisdiction and is regulated by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection's Division of Water and Waste Management (DWWM). Despite its age, the dam continues to serve its purpose effectively, showcasing the importance of proper maintenance and inspection protocols for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

In times of emergency, the dam's uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates play a crucial role in managing water levels and mitigating risks to downstream areas. With a history of periodic inspections and a designated emergency action plan, South Fork No. 9 remains a key infrastructure for flood control in Pendleton, West Virginia. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and upkeep of such dams become increasingly vital for the safety and well-being of local communities.

Year Completed

1963

Dam Length

750

Dam Height

99.2

River Or Stream

DICE RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

30

Hydraulic Height

85.2

Nid Storage

949

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

99
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.