Tygart Dam
Key Takeaway
Tygart Dam is classified as high hazard in West Virginia. It was completed in 1938 and is 88 years old. Its primary use is flood risk reduction. 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 Length | 1,921 ft |
| Dam Type | Gravity |
| Max Storage | 355.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 99.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 1,740 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1,184 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 316,000 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1938 (88 years old) |
| NID ID | WV09101 |
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
USACE - Pittsburgh District
Federal Government
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Tygart Dam?
Tygart 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 Tygart Dam?
Tygart Dam is owned by USACE - Pittsburgh District (Federal Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Tygart Dam built?
Tygart Dam was completed in 1938, making it 88 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 Tygart Dam?
Tygart Dam serves the following purposes: Flood Risk Reduction, Other, Navigation, Fish And Wildlife Pond, Recreation, Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
When was Tygart Dam last inspected?
Tygart Dam was last inspected on April 26, 2023. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.