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.
Wind
Humidity
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 |
Hurricane Creek At Hurricane
|
12cfs |
Coal River At Tornado
|
391cfs |
Pocatalico River At Sissonville
|
48cfs |
Kanawha River At Charleston
|
4570cfs |
Big Coal River At Ashford
|
234cfs |
Symmes Creek At Aid Oh
|
92cfs |