Charles Fork Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake Trotter Miletree Run Dam No. 2
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Charles Fork is a vital water resource located in Roane, West Virginia, providing flood risk reduction and water supply for the local community.
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Summary
Managed by the USDA NRCS, this earth dam stands at a height of 86.5 feet and was completed in 1973. With a storage capacity of 4,243 acre-feet and a surface area of 72 acres, Charles Fork plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area.
This high-hazard potential dam is regulated by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its fair condition. Despite its fair assessment, the dam poses a moderate risk level of 3 due to its design and operational factors. With a designated emergency action plan, Charles Fork is prepared to respond to any potential risks and ensure the safety of the surrounding community in case of emergencies.
With its primary purpose of flood risk reduction, Charles Fork serves as a key infrastructure for water management in the region. Its strategic location along the Charles Fork stream and its critical role in water supply highlight the importance of this dam for both flood control and water resource sustainability in the area.
Year Completed |
1973 |
Dam Length |
445 |
Dam Height |
86.5 |
River Or Stream |
CHARLES FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
72 |
Hydraulic Height |
86 |
Drainage Area |
3.88 |
Nid Storage |
4243 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
87 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
W.Fork Little Kanawha River At Rocksdale
|
95cfs |
Little Kanawha River At Palestine
|
1670cfs |
Elk River At Queen Shoals
|
995cfs |
Pocatalico River At Sissonville
|
177cfs |
Elk River At Clay
|
11200cfs |
Birch River At Herold
|
11cfs |
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.
Charles Fork