Upper Smith Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Upper Smith Dam in Wood, West Virginia, is a privately owned structure that serves primarily for recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1955, the earth dam stands at a height of 48 feet and has a storage capacity of 71 acre-feet. Situated on UT Neal Run, the dam spans 450 feet and covers an area of 4 acres. Despite its recreational purpose, the dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed to be in poor condition, last inspected in 2015.

Managed by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, the dam is subject to state regulations and inspections. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in 2009, and there are no inundation maps or risk assessments available. With its location near Parkersburg and the Huntington District, Upper Smith Dam presents both a leisurely escape for visitors and a potential concern for water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its high hazard potential and poor condition rating.

As an integral part of the local landscape, Upper Smith Dam serves as a recreational hub while also warranting attention for its structural integrity and emergency preparedness. The dam's association with UT Neal Run and its proximity to Parkersburg make it a notable feature in Wood County, West Virginia. This site offers an intriguing mix of natural beauty and potential risks, making it a point of interest for those interested in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

48

River Or Stream

UT NEAL RUN

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

42

Drainage Area

0.18

Nid Storage

71

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

48
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.