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.
Wind
Humidity
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 |
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43cfs |
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25cfs |
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