Lake Chaweva Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Lake Chaweva Dam, located in Cross Lanes, West Virginia, is a rockfill dam completed in 2002 with a primary purpose of recreation.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The dam stands at a height of 36 feet and has a length of 270 feet, creating a reservoir with a storage capacity of 622 acre-feet. With a surface area of 26.8 acres and a drainage area of 2.34 square miles, the dam supports various outdoor activities such as boating, fishing, and wildlife observation.

Managed by a private owner and regulated by the West Virginia Department of Water Resources, Lake Chaweva Dam is inspected regularly to ensure its structural integrity and operational efficiency. The dam has a high hazard potential but has been assessed to be in satisfactory condition as of October 2015. In case of emergencies, an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) is in place, although its last revision dates back to July 2008, indicating the need for regular updates to meet safety guidelines and ensure effective risk management measures.

Despite its relatively small size, Lake Chaweva Dam plays a significant role in providing recreational opportunities for residents and visitors in the Kanawha County area. Its proximity to Rocky Fork stream and its location within a scenic natural setting make it a popular destination for water resource and climate enthusiasts seeking outdoor adventures and relaxation. With ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts, Lake Chaweva Dam continues to serve as a vital resource for water-based activities while prioritizing safety and environmental conservation.

Year Completed

2002

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

36

River Or Stream

ROCKY FORK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

26.8

Drainage Area

2.34

Nid Storage

622

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

36
       
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.