Upper Deckers No. 5 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Fairfax Pond Upper Deckers No. 6
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Upper Deckers No.
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Summary
5, also known as Cane's Run, is a vital flood risk reduction structure located in Preston, West Virginia. Built in 1967 by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 63 feet and has a hydraulic height of 43 feet, serving to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events along Canes Creek. With a normal storage capacity of 80 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 675 acre-feet, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow and reducing flood risks in the region.
Managed by the local government and regulated by the West Virginia Department of Water Resources Management, Upper Deckers No. 5 is considered to have significant hazard potential and is inspected every two years to ensure its structural integrity. The dam's condition was last assessed as satisfactory in 2014, with emergency action plans in place to address any potential risks. While the dam's spillway is uncontrolled, its operations are closely monitored to mitigate any potential flooding threats to the surrounding communities.
With its strategic location and design, Upper Deckers No. 5 continues to be a key component in the region's water resource management efforts. As climate change impacts become more pronounced, structures like this play a critical role in safeguarding communities from the increasing risks of flooding. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to recognize the importance of infrastructure like Upper Deckers No. 5 in maintaining the resilience of our water systems in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
Year Completed |
1967 |
Dam Length |
450 |
Dam Height |
63 |
River Or Stream |
CANES CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
9 |
Hydraulic Height |
43 |
Drainage Area |
2.97 |
Nid Storage |
675 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
63 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cheat River At Albright
|
1410cfs |
Big Sandy Creek At Rockville
|
138cfs |
Deckers Creek At Morgantown
|
43cfs |
Three Fork Creek Nr Grafton
|
63cfs |
Tygart Valley R At Tygart Dam Nr Grafton
|
1320cfs |
Tygart Valley River At Colfax
|
1380cfs |
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. 5