Racine Locks And Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Huffman Dam Little Broad Run #6 Dam
Last Updated: December 6, 2025
Racine Locks and Dam, located on the Ohio River in West Virginia, serves as a key infrastructure for navigation, hydroelectric power generation, and recreational activities.
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Summary
Built in 1971 by the US Army Corps of Engineers, this concrete dam stands at a structural height of 100 feet and spans a length of 1530 feet. With a controlled spillway width of 880 feet and a hydraulic height of 50 feet, the dam has a significant hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating.
The dam features two locks, each 1200 feet in length and 110 feet wide, facilitating the passage of vessels through the waterway. Despite its risk profile, the US Army Corps of Engineers actively manages flood risks associated with the dam by monitoring its condition, prioritizing risk mitigation activities, and engaging with local emergency managers and the public to enhance preparedness and response capabilities. Regular maintenance and updates to the emergency action plan ensure that the dam continues to operate safely and effectively, serving as a vital component of water resource management in the region.
As a focal point for water management on the Ohio River, Racine Locks and Dam exemplifies the intersection of infrastructure, climate resilience, and environmental stewardship. With ongoing efforts to address flood risks and enhance public safety, this federal facility plays a crucial role in balancing the demands of navigation, power generation, and recreational use while safeguarding against potential hazards and ensuring the long-term sustainability of water resources in the area.
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
1530 |
River Or Stream |
OHIO RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Concrete |
Surface Area |
5300 |
Length Of Locks |
1200 |
Hydraulic Height |
50 |
Drainage Area |
40130 |
Nid Storage |
153700 |
Structural Height |
100 |
Outlet Gates |
Tainter (radial) - 8 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
100 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Racine Locks And Dam