Lake Washington Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Washington, located in Wood County, West Virginia, is a private reservoir that serves as a popular recreational spot for water enthusiasts.


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Summary

The dam, primarily made of concrete and completed in 1935, stands at an impressive height of 72.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 2750 acre-feet. With a normal storage level of 730 acre-feet and a surface area of 103 acres, Lake Washington offers a serene setting for fishing, boating, and other outdoor activities.

Managed by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, Lake Washington is regularly inspected and maintained to ensure its safety and regulatory compliance. The dam, built on Vaughts Run of Sandy Creek, has a significant hazard potential but its condition assessment remains unrated. Despite the lack of a formal Emergency Action Plan assessment, the reservoir continues to be a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike, with its maximum discharge capacity reaching 32,118 cubic feet per second.

With its picturesque surroundings and ample water storage capacity, Lake Washington is not only a vital resource for the region but also a valuable recreational asset. Whether enjoying a leisurely day by the water or exploring the nearby city of Belleville, visitors can appreciate the beauty and functionality of this impressive reservoir. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of responsibly managing and maintaining bodies of water like Lake Washington becomes increasingly crucial for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1935

Dam Length

497

Dam Height

72.5

River Or Stream

VAUGHTS RUN OF SANDY CK

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

103

Hydraulic Height

71.5

Drainage Area

0.9

Nid Storage

2750

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

73
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.