Opekiska Lock And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Opekiska Lock and Dam, located on the Monongahela River in Morgantown, West Virginia, was completed in 1967 by the US Army Corps of Engineers for the primary purpose of navigation.


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Summary

This gravity dam, with a hydraulic height of 36 feet and a structural height of 52 feet, spans 478 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 14,400 acre-feet. With a controlled spillway width of 336 feet and a single lock measuring 600 feet in length and 84 feet in width, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water levels and maintaining the structural integrity of the river system.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam is subject to very high (1) risk assessment due to the inherent risks associated with flood management. The USACE actively manages these risks by monitoring the dam's condition, prioritizing risk-reducing activities, and collaborating with local emergency managers to prepare for potential dam-related emergencies. Regular maintenance and updates to the emergency action plan are key components of the risk management strategy, ensuring the safety and stability of the Opekiska Lock and Dam for the surrounding community and water resource enthusiasts alike. Further details on the dam's risk management measures and flood risk mitigation efforts are continuously being added to enhance the understanding of its operations and safety protocols.

Year Completed

1967

Dam Length

478

River Or Stream

MONONGAHELA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

800

Length Of Locks

600

Hydraulic Height

36

Drainage Area

2530

Nid Storage

14400

Structural Height

52

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 4

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

52
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.