Upper Deckers No. 4 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Upper Deckers No.
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Summary
4, also known as Billan Run, is a flood risk reduction structure located in Preston, West Virginia. Built in 1966 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at 37 feet in height with a hydraulic height of 29 feet, offering flood protection along Billan Run. With a storage capacity of 932 acre-feet and a normal storage of 50 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in mitigating flood risks in the area.
Managed by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, Upper Deckers No. 4 is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and functionality. The dam has a high hazard potential and is classified as being in a satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2013. In the event of an emergency, the structure has an emergency action plan prepared, meeting guidelines set forth by regulatory agencies.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Upper Deckers No. 4 serves as a key example of infrastructure designed to protect communities from the impacts of flooding. Its presence along Billan Run demonstrates the importance of proactive flood risk reduction measures in safeguarding both property and lives in the region. With its storied history and ongoing maintenance, this dam stands as a symbol of resilience in the face of natural disasters.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
380 |
Dam Height |
37 |
River Or Stream |
BILLAN RUN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
29 |
Drainage Area |
2.81 |
Nid Storage |
932 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
37 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Sandy Creek At Rockville
|
138cfs |
Cheat River At Albright
|
1410cfs |
Deckers Creek At Morgantown
|
43cfs |
Three Fork Creek Nr Grafton
|
63cfs |
Dunkard Creek At Shannopin
|
57cfs |
Tygart Valley R At Tygart Dam Nr Grafton
|
1320cfs |
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 Deckers No. 4