Racine Locks and Dam

OHIO RIVER· Mason, West Virginia· Built 1971· Concrete·
Significant Hazard Navigation Recreation Hydroelectric Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Racine Locks and Dam is classified as significant hazard in West Virginia. It was completed in 1971 and is 55 years old. Its primary use is navigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length1,530 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage153.7K acre-ft
Normal Storage153.7K acre-ft
Surface Area5,300 acres
Drainage Area40,130 sq mi
Max Discharge56,800 cfs
Year Completed1971 (55 years old)
NID IDWV05301

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: No
Last Inspection: August 11, 2022
State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Huntington District

Federal Government

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Racine Locks and Dam?

Racine Locks and Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Racine Locks and Dam?

Racine Locks and Dam is owned by USACE - Huntington District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Racine Locks and Dam built?

Racine Locks and Dam was completed in 1971, making it 55 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 Racine Locks and Dam?

Racine Locks and Dam serves the following purposes: Navigation, Recreation, Hydroelectric. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

When was Racine Locks and Dam last inspected?

Racine Locks and Dam was last inspected on August 11, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.