Lake Lynn Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lake Lynn, also known as Cheat Lake Dam, is a captivating hydroelectric structure located in Monongalia County, West Virginia.


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Summary

Constructed in 1926 by Sanderson & Porter Engineers, this gravity dam stands at a height of 125 feet and spans 1000 feet in length. With a storage capacity of 72,300 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 162,500 cubic feet per second, Lake Lynn serves both hydroelectric and recreational purposes, offering a surface area of 1,729 acres for outdoor enthusiasts to explore.

Managed by a private entity, Lake Lynn is regulated by both state and federal agencies, including the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. The dam's spillway, controlled and 624 feet wide, adds to its structural integrity and safety measures, although the hazard potential is considered high with a very high risk assessment rating. In the event of emergencies, the dam's Emergency Action Plan is periodically reviewed and updated, ensuring that appropriate risk management measures are in place to protect surrounding communities and the environment.

The picturesque Cheat River flows through the area, providing a scenic backdrop to Lake Lynn's multi-arch core and concrete gravity dam design. With its historical significance and vital role in providing clean energy and recreational opportunities, Lake Lynn stands as a testament to engineering ingenuity and the harmonious coexistence of water resources and climate resilience.

Year Completed

1926

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

125

River Or Stream

Cheat River

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

1729

Drainage Area

1413

Nid Storage

72300

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 26

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

125
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.