Willow Island Locks and Dam

OHIO RIVER· Pleasants, West Virginia· Built 1976· Concrete·
Significant Hazard Navigation Recreation Hydroelectric Federal Government

Key Takeaway

Willow Island Locks and Dam is classified as significant hazard in West Virginia. It was completed in 1976 and is 50 years old. Its primary use is navigation. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length1,475 ft
Dam TypeConcrete
Max Storage177.6K acre-ft
Normal Storage177.6K acre-ft
Surface Area6,400 acres
Drainage Area26,900 sq mi
Max Discharge46,800 cfs
Year Completed1976 (50 years old)
NID IDWV07301

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: June 28, 2019
State Regulated: No

Ownership

USACE - Huntington District

Federal Government

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Willow Island Locks and Dam?

Willow Island 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 Willow Island Locks and Dam?

Willow Island 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 Willow Island Locks and Dam built?

Willow Island Locks and Dam was completed in 1976, making it 50 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 Willow Island Locks and Dam?

Willow Island 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 Willow Island Locks and Dam last inspected?

Willow Island Locks and Dam was last inspected on June 28, 2019. 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.