Opekiska Lock and Dam
Key Takeaway
Opekiska Lock and Dam is classified as low hazard in West Virginia. It was completed in 1967 and is 59 years old. Its primary use is navigation.
Physical Details
| Dam Length | 478 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 14.4K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 14.4K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 800 acres |
| Drainage Area | 2,530 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 117,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1967 (59 years old) |
| NID ID | WV06108 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
USACE - Pittsburgh District
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Hildebrand Lock and Dam
Monongalia, WV
Low HazardLough Lake
Monongalia, WV
High Hazard 25 ftLynch Lake
Monongalia, WV
High Hazard 25 ftCobun Creek #1 Dam
Monongalia, WV
Significant Hazard 57 ftMorgantown Lock and Dam
Monongalia, WV
Low HazardLaurel Run Lake
Marion, WV
High Hazard 15 ftCobun Creek #2 Dam
Monongalia, WV
High HazardParadise Lake
Monongalia, WV
Significant Hazard 16 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Opekiska Lock and Dam?
Opekiska Lock and Dam is classified as Low Hazard. No probable loss of human life and low economic/environmental losses expected. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Opekiska Lock and Dam?
Opekiska Lock and Dam is owned by USACE - Pittsburgh District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Opekiska Lock and Dam built?
Opekiska Lock and Dam was completed in 1967, making it 59 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 Opekiska Lock and Dam?
Opekiska Lock and Dam serves the following purposes: Navigation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Opekiska Lock and Dam last inspected?
Opekiska Lock and Dam was last inspected on August 17, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.