Lake Stephens Dam
Key Takeaway
Lake Stephens Dam is classified as high hazard in West Virginia. It was completed in 1963 and is 63 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 | 74 ft (taller than 75.8% in WV) |
| Dam Length | 875 ft |
| Dam Type | Rockfill |
| Max Storage | 9.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 6.6K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 248 acres |
| Drainage Area | 4 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1963 (63 years old) |
| NID ID | WV08103 |
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
RALEIGH COUNTY RECREATION AUTHORITY
Local Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Lake Stephens Dam?
Lake Stephens 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 Stephens Dam?
Lake Stephens Dam is owned by RALEIGH COUNTY RECREATION AUTHORITY (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Lake Stephens Dam built?
Lake Stephens Dam was completed in 1963, making it 63 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 Stephens Dam?
Lake Stephens 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 Stephens Dam?
Lake Stephens Dam has a dam height of 74 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 Stephens Dam last inspected?
Lake Stephens Dam was last inspected on February 12, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.