No. 1-West Of Cornwallis Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
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Summary
1-West of Cornwallis is a historic earth dam located in Ritchie County, West Virginia, near the city of Cairo. Completed in 1863, this dam serves multiple purposes including fire protection, stock watering, and small fish pond management. The dam has a height of 31 feet and a storage capacity of 41 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 23 acre-feet.
Situated on the Hughes River, No. 1-West of Cornwallis is regulated by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection and undergoes regular state inspections for safety and compliance. Despite its age, the dam has a low hazard potential and has not been formally assessed for its current condition. While it does not have a designated Emergency Action Plan (EAP) or inundation maps prepared, the dam remains an integral part of the local water resource infrastructure.
With its rich history and continued functionality, No. 1-West of Cornwallis is a testament to the enduring importance of water resource management in the region. As a private-owned structure, this dam plays a crucial role in supporting local fire protection efforts and providing essential water resources for livestock and recreational purposes. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the preservation and maintenance of structures like No. 1-West of Cornwallis will be vital in ensuring the continued sustainability of the surrounding communities and ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1863 |
Dam Length |
1043 |
Dam Height |
31 |
River Or Stream |
HUGHES RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1.5 |
Hydraulic Height |
30 |
Nid Storage |
41 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
31 |
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.
No. 1-West Of Cornwallis
North Fork Hughes River Near Cairo