Tomlinson Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Tomlinson Lake Dam, also known as Tomlinson Run Dam, is a gravity dam located in Hancock, West Virginia.


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Summary

Completed in 1936, this state-owned structure serves a primary purpose of recreation along the Tomlinson Run river. Standing at a height of 38 feet with a hydraulic height of 28 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 532 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 325 acre-feet.

Despite its historical significance and recreational value, Tomlinson Lake Dam has been flagged for significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment in recent years. With the last inspection conducted in March 2019, the dam is in need of regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure its safety and longevity. The Emergency Action Plan (EAP) for the dam was last revised in February 2021, highlighting the need for proactive measures to address any potential risks associated with the dam's operation.

As a key feature in the Pittsburgh District managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers, Tomlinson Lake Dam serves as a vital resource for water management and recreational activities in the region. With its picturesque location and historical significance, the dam continues to attract water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking to explore its impact on the surrounding environment. Despite its current condition assessment, efforts are underway to ensure the safety and sustainability of this iconic structure for future generations to enjoy.

Year Completed

1936

Dam Length

190

Dam Height

38

River Or Stream

TOMLINSON RUN

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Hydraulic Height

28

Nid Storage

532

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

38
       
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.