Summary
This rockfill dam stands at a height of 33 feet and stretches 516 feet in length, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 551 acre-feet. The primary purpose of Dawson Dam is for recreation, offering a surface area of 29.1 acres for water enthusiasts to enjoy. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is currently deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in 2014.
The dam is situated on Callahan Branch and is regulated by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection. It is regularly inspected, with the most recent inspection conducted in February 2018. Dawson Dam has a drainage area of 235 square miles and a normal storage capacity of 398 acre-feet. While there are no associated structures or locks, the dam serves as a vital recreational resource for the surrounding community, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. As a significant part of the local landscape, Dawson Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
2009 |
Dam Length |
516 |
Dam Height |
33 |
River Or Stream |
CALLAHAN BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
29.1 |
Drainage Area |
235 |
Nid Storage |
551 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
33 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Greenbrier River At Alderson
|
559cfs |
Greenbrier River At Hilldale
|
597cfs |
Meadow River At Nallen
|
331cfs |
New River At Thurmond
|
3630cfs |
Piney Creek At Raleigh
|
67cfs |
Bluestone River Near Pipestem
|
309cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Dawson Dam
Meadow Creek Junction To The Route U.S. 19 Bridge