Freshwater Dam
Key Takeaway
Freshwater Dam is classified as high hazard in West Virginia. It was completed in 1977 and is 49 years old. Its primary use is recreation. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 70 ft (taller than 72.9% in WV) |
| Dam Length | 440 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 560 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 277 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 7 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 4,500 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1977 (49 years old) |
| NID ID | WV09910 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
ROCKSPRING DEVELOPMENT
Private
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High Hazard 179 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Freshwater Dam?
Freshwater Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Freshwater Dam?
Freshwater Dam is owned by ROCKSPRING DEVELOPMENT (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Freshwater Dam built?
Freshwater Dam was completed in 1977, making it 49 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Freshwater Dam?
Freshwater Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Freshwater Dam?
Freshwater Dam has a dam height of 70 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.