Lake Chaweva Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Chaweva Dam is classified as high hazard in West Virginia. It was completed in 2002 and is 24 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 | 36 ft (taller than 38.5% in WV) |
| Dam Length | 270 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 622 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 288 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 27 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 2002 (24 years old) |
| NID ID | WV03901 |
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
LAKE CHAWEVA CLUB
Private
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Significant Hazard 152 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Chaweva Dam?
Lake Chaweva 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 Lake Chaweva Dam?
Lake Chaweva Dam is owned by LAKE CHAWEVA CLUB (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Chaweva Dam built?
Lake Chaweva Dam was completed in 2002, making it 24 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 Lake Chaweva Dam?
Lake Chaweva 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 Lake Chaweva Dam?
Lake Chaweva Dam has a dam height of 36 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.
When was Lake Chaweva Dam last inspected?
Lake Chaweva Dam was last inspected on July 30, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.