Lake Washington Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 9, 2025

Lake Washington, located in Putnam, West Virginia, is a private water resource regulated by the state.


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Summary

The dam, completed in 1938, stands at a height of 24 feet and has a hydraulic height of 20 feet. With a storage capacity of 690 acre-feet, the lake covers an area of 59 acres and serves multiple purposes, including recreation. The dam is categorized as a buttress type and is in fair condition, with a high hazard potential.

Sitting on Hurricane Creek, Lake Washington is an important water body in the region, with a drainage area of 13.5 square miles. Managed by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, the dam undergoes inspections every two years to ensure its safety. The structure has a normal storage capacity of 472 acre-feet and is primarily used for recreational activities, attracting water resource and climate enthusiasts alike.

With its rich history dating back to the late 1930s, Lake Washington continues to be a significant landmark in the area, offering opportunities for water-based activities and serving as a vital resource for the local community. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's fair condition and regular inspections ensure the safety of both the structure and the surrounding environment. For those interested in water resources and climate, Lake Washington presents a fascinating example of human-made infrastructure intersecting with natural landscapes to create a valuable water resource for both practical and recreational purposes.

Year Completed

1938

Dam Length

218

Dam Height

24

River Or Stream

HURRICANE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Buttress

Surface Area

59

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

13.5

Nid Storage

690

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

24
       
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.