Marmet Locks And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Marmet Locks and Dam, located on the Kanawha River in West Virginia, is a federal structure owned and operated by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

Completed in 1934, this concrete dam serves multiple purposes, including navigation, hydroelectric power generation, and recreation. With a structural height of 101 feet and two locks measuring 360 feet in length, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and facilitating transportation along the river.

Despite its age, Marmet Locks and Dam is well-maintained and regularly inspected to ensure its safety and functionality. With a significant hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, the US Army Corps of Engineers implements various risk management measures to address potential flood risks associated with the dam. This includes ongoing monitoring, prioritizing maintenance activities, and working closely with local emergency managers to develop emergency action plans and evacuation procedures in case of a dam-related emergency. Overall, Marmet Locks and Dam is a vital infrastructure that plays a critical role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.

Year Completed

1934

Dam Length

973

River Or Stream

KANAWHA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

1300

Length Of Locks

360

Hydraulic Height

37

Drainage Area

8816

Nid Storage

30600

Structural Height

101

Outlet Gates

Roller - 5

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

101
       
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.