Lake Dickenson Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Lake Dickenson Dam in West Virginia is a private-owned structure with a primary purpose of recreation.


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Summary

Completed in 1955, this earth dam stands at a height of 27.3 feet and has a storage capacity of 76.3 acre-feet. The dam, located in Putnam County near Black Lick School, helps create a surface area of 7.26 acres while serving as a popular spot for water resource and climate enthusiasts.

With a high hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Lake Dickenson Dam is regularly inspected by state regulatory agencies to ensure its safety and compliance. The dam's emergency action plan was last revised in February 2017, emphasizing the importance of preparedness and risk management measures. Despite its age, the dam continues to provide recreational opportunities and support local water resources in the region.

While Lake Dickenson Dam may not be widely known, its significance lies in its contribution to water storage, flood control, and recreational activities in the area. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the dam serves as a vital infrastructure for managing water levels and ensuring the safety of surrounding communities. Enthusiasts interested in exploring the intersection of water resources and climate change will find Lake Dickenson Dam an intriguing subject for further study and appreciation.

Year Completed

1955

Dam Length

368

Dam Height

27.3

River Or Stream

TR OF LONG BRNCH OF POPLAR FRK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

7.26

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

76.3

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

27
       
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.