South Fork No.18 Reservoir Report
Nearby: South Fork No. 36 South Fork No.32
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
South Fork No.18, located in Sugar Grove, West Virginia, is a local government-owned earth dam built in 1968 by USDA NRCS to reduce flood risk along Stony Run.
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Summary
Standing at 76 feet high with a hydraulic height of 68 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 1,266 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 47 acres. Despite its fair condition assessment in 2015, South Fork No.18 poses a high hazard potential, prompting regular inspections every 2 years to ensure its structural integrity.
Managed by the Division of Water and Waste Management in West Virginia, this dam is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates. The primary purpose of South Fork No.18 is flood risk reduction, serving as a critical infrastructure in safeguarding the surrounding communities from potential inundation. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan preparation status remain unspecified, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential risks effectively.
While South Fork No.18 plays a crucial role in flood control and protection, its aging infrastructure and high hazard potential underscore the importance of continued oversight and maintenance. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the significance of dams like South Fork No.18 in safeguarding communities and ecosystems against the impacts of extreme weather events and changing climate patterns. By staying informed and advocating for sustainable dam management practices, we can contribute to the resilience of our water resources and enhance our collective preparedness for future challenges.
Year Completed |
1968 |
Dam Length |
745 |
Dam Height |
76 |
River Or Stream |
STONY RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
47 |
Hydraulic Height |
68 |
Nid Storage |
1266 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
76 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Brandywine Recreation Area
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Brandywine campground
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Hone Quarry Campground
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Todd Lake Recreation Area
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North River Campground
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South Fork No.18
North River Campground To Camp May Flather