Winfield Locks And Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Winfield Locks and Dam, located on the Kanawha River in Midway, West Virginia, is a federal structure managed by the US Army Corps of Engineers.


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Summary

Built in 1937, this concrete dam serves primarily for navigation purposes but also supports hydroelectric power generation and recreation activities. With a structural height of 110 feet and a hydraulic height of 42 feet, the dam spans 985 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 79,100 acre-feet.

The dam features a controlled spillway with a width of 600 feet and three locks that are 900 feet long and 56 feet wide each. While the hazard potential of the dam is deemed significant, risk management measures are in place to address flood risks and ensure public safety. The US Army Corps of Engineers regularly monitors and maintains the dam, collaborates with local emergency managers, and updates the emergency action plan to mitigate potential risks associated with the structure.

Despite the inherent risks associated with dams and potential flooding events, Winfield Locks and Dam continues to play a crucial role in managing water levels and protecting downstream communities. With ongoing efforts to enhance safety measures and raise awareness about emergency preparedness, the dam serves as a vital component of the water resource infrastructure in the region.

Year Completed

1937

Dam Length

985

River Or Stream

KANAWHA RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Concrete

Surface Area

3100

Length Of Locks

900

Hydraulic Height

42

Drainage Area

11813

Nid Storage

79100

Structural Height

110

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

110
       
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.