North Fork Hughes River Site 21c Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
North Fork Hughes River Site 21c Dam, located in Cornwallis, West Virginia, is a local government-owned structure designed by Gannett Fleming to reduce flood risks along the North Fork of the Hughes River.
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Summary
Completed in 2002, this multi-arch dam stands at a height of 93 feet and has a storage capacity of 44,231 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 3,717 acre-feet. The dam's primary purpose is flood risk reduction, but it also serves recreational purposes for the community.
The dam, regulated by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, is inspected every two years to ensure its satisfactory condition and high hazard potential. Its uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates provide emergency water release mechanisms. Despite a moderate risk assessment, the dam has met regulatory guidelines and is equipped with an Emergency Action Plan to address any potential safety concerns. With a solid track record and a commitment to safety, the North Fork Hughes River Site 21c Dam continues to play a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
Year Completed |
2002 |
Dam Length |
538 |
Dam Height |
93 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Other |
Surface Area |
306 |
Nid Storage |
44231 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
93 |
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.
North Fork Hughes River Site 21c Dam
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