Compressor Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Compressor Lake Dam in Hampshire, West Virginia, is a vital structure managed by a public utility for flood risk reduction along the Grassy Lick stream.


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Summary

Completed in 1971, this earth-type dam stands at 19 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a length of 530 feet, providing crucial protection for the surrounding area. With a drainage area of 2223 square miles, the dam serves to control water flow and minimize the risk of flooding in the region.

Despite its age, Compressor Lake Dam remains in satisfactory condition, as assessed during its last inspection in October 2018. The dam's significant hazard potential underscores its importance in safeguarding the local community and infrastructure from potential water-related disasters. While primarily built for flood risk reduction, the dam also offers recreational opportunities, making it a multifunctional structure that contributes to both safety and leisure in the area.

As a regulated and inspected facility in West Virginia, Compressor Lake Dam plays a crucial role in water resource management and climate resilience efforts. Its presence highlights the importance of investing in infrastructure that can withstand the challenges posed by changing environmental conditions, ensuring the safety and well-being of the community it serves.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

530

Dam Height

19

River Or Stream

GRASSY LICK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

2223

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

20
       
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.