Ward Impoundment (Lower) Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

The Ward Impoundment (Lower) Dam, also known as the Northern Dike at UC Technical Center, is a private dam located in South Charleston, West Virginia.


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Summary

This rockfill dam was constructed for the primary purpose of tailings storage and stands at a height of 152 feet, with a length of 770 feet. It has a storage capacity of 1050 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 7.33 acres, serving as a vital component in the management of water resources in the area.

The dam is regulated by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The hazard potential of the dam is considered significant, but its condition assessment is reported as satisfactory as of the last inspection in 2011. The emergency action plan for the dam was last revised in 2017, highlighting the importance of preparedness and risk management measures in response to potential inundation events.

With its strategic location on the Kanawha River and its crucial role in tailings storage, the Ward Impoundment (Lower) Dam plays a key role in water resource management in Kanawha County, West Virginia. Enthusiasts of water resources and climate can appreciate the intricate design and functionality of this dam, as well as the regulatory oversight and safety measures in place to protect the surrounding community and environment.

Dam Length

770

Dam Height

152

River Or Stream

KANAWHA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

7.33

Drainage Area

327.9

Nid Storage

1050

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

152
       
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.