Seneca Lake
Key Takeaway
Seneca Lake is classified as significant hazard in West Virginia. It was completed in 1952 and is 74 years old. Its primary use is fish and wildlife pond. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 23 ft (taller than 12.3% in WV) |
| Dam Length | 200 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 78 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 40 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 4 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 1,017 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1952 (74 years old) |
| NID ID | WV07505 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
WVDNR, PARKS
State Government
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Low Hazard 27 ftBath County P S Middle Sediment Dam
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Low Hazard 26 ftBath County P S Upper Reservoir - Upper Dam
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High Hazard 460 ftMarlin Run No. 1
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High Hazard 71 ftBath County P S Lower Recreation Pond Dam
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Low Hazard 19 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Seneca Lake?
Seneca Lake 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 Seneca Lake?
Seneca Lake is owned by WVDNR, PARKS (State Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Seneca Lake built?
Seneca Lake was completed in 1952, making it 74 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 Seneca Lake?
Seneca Lake serves the following purposes: Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Seneca Lake?
Seneca Lake has a dam height of 23 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 Seneca Lake last inspected?
Seneca Lake was last inspected on June 6, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.