Hawks Nest Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Situated in the picturesque surroundings of Gauley Bridge, West Virginia, Hawks Nest (also known as Gauley Junction Dam) is a private hydroelectric dam on the New River.


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Summary

With a towering height of 85 feet and a hydraulic height of 163 feet, this concrete gravity dam was completed in 1936 and serves multiple purposes including hydroelectric power generation and recreation. The dam boasts a storage capacity of 7,323 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 335,000 cubic feet per second.

Despite its age, Hawks Nest remains a critical piece of infrastructure, with a high hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating. The dam's controlled spillway, 700 feet wide, helps manage water flow during peak periods. The dam's roller gates, numbering 14, assist in regulating water levels and releases.

Managed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, Hawks Nest is an integral part of the region's water resource management system. Its stunning location, combined with its historical significance and operational importance, make it a must-visit destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to appreciate the intersection of nature and engineering.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

948

Dam Height

85

River Or Stream

New River

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

243

Hydraulic Height

163

Drainage Area

6856

Nid Storage

7323

Structural Height

102

Outlet Gates

Roller - 14

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

163
       
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.