Willow Island Locks And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Willow Island Locks and Dam, located on the Ohio River in West Virginia, was completed in 1976 by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

The primary purpose of this federal structure is navigation, although it also serves hydroelectric and recreational purposes. With a structural height of 111 feet and a hydraulic height of 44 feet, the dam manages the pool elevation upstream and permits navigation through the river. It features a controlled spillway and two navigation locks, making it a vital component for water transport in the region.

Despite its significant hazard potential, Willow Island Locks and Dam does not provide flood protection. In the event of a failure, there would be no projected loss of life, but the economic consequences would be severe. The dam's failure could lead to the loss of navigation along the Ohio River, impacting local industries and causing streambank erosion along the river and its tributaries. To mitigate risks, the US Army Corps of Engineers conducts regular inspections and maintenance to ensure the structure remains stable and operational. Despite the potential challenges, Willow Island Locks and Dam continues to play a crucial role in managing water resources and facilitating navigation in the region.

Year Completed

1976

Dam Length

1475

River Or Stream

OHIO RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

6400

Length Of Locks

1200

Hydraulic Height

44

Drainage Area

26900

Nid Storage

177600

Structural Height

111

Outlet Gates

Tainter (radial) - 8

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

111
       
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.