Spruce Knob Lake Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Spruce Knob Lake, located in West Virginia, is a captivating water resource managed by the USDA Forest Service.


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Summary

The lake, completed in 1952, serves as a Fish and Wildlife Pond, providing a habitat for various species and offering recreational opportunities to visitors. With a normal storage capacity of 170 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 228 acre-feet, Spruce Knob Lake covers an area of 25 acres and is fed by the Narrow Ridge Run.

The dam at Spruce Knob Lake is an Earth-type structure with a height of 23 feet and a length of 760 feet. The lake's spillway is controlled with a width of 2 feet, and the outlet gates consist of a slide (sluice gate). While the lake has a low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, it has not been rated for its condition assessment as of the most recent inspection in 2018. Despite this, Spruce Knob Lake remains a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore the beauty of nature in West Virginia.

Managed and funded by the Forest Service, Spruce Knob Lake stands as a testament to sustainable water resource management practices. With its serene surroundings and diverse wildlife, this hidden gem offers a peaceful retreat for those looking to connect with nature and appreciate the importance of preserving water resources in a changing climate. Whether for fishing, wildlife observation, or simply enjoying a day by the water, Spruce Knob Lake is a must-visit destination for anyone passionate about water conservation and environmental stewardship.

Years Modified

1995 - Mechanical

Year Completed

1952

Dam Length

760

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

NARROW RIDGE RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

25

Hydraulic Height

18

Drainage Area

1

Nid Storage

228

Structural Height

23

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate)

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.