Flood Control

Flood Control. . , As the primary purpose of the Summersville Lake Project is flood control, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers continuously monitors rainfall and stream flow conditions. To prevent downstream flooding, the USACE monitors stream gauges in both downstream locations and on tributaries that flow into the lake. Operations may be made, not only for conditions in the lake and the immediate reach of the Gauley River, but also for flood conditions on the Kanawha and Ohio Rivers. , Operation of flood control consists of two parts: (1) retaining excess inflow into the lake to prevent downstream flooding during an event, and, (2) evacuation of stored floodwater as quickly as possible after the event to maximize the storage capacity availability in preparation for any upcoming events. , Another purpose for the Summersville Lake Project is low-flow augmentation. This is most utilized in mid to late summer when rainfall has diminished and water quality diminishes along the Kanawha River. Releases from upstream reservoirs including Summersville Lake, are made to manipulate dissolved oxygen content and/or temperature in downstream rivers to maintain a healthy river environment for West Virginia fish and wildlife. , Hydropower Completed. In 2001 a privately owned hydropower facility was completed below Summersville Dam. The hydropower facility at maximum capacity is able to produce 80 Megawatts of power with a flow of 4,300 cfs (cubic feet per second). In 2015, The Summersville Dam hydropower plant was able to produce 208,000 MWh (MegaWatt hours) of energy. This can provide power for up to 14,989 homes. This is enough energy to provide power for 57% of Charleston's households annually. , The Gauley River. The Gauley River located below the dam is among the World’s best whitewater runs. The World Rafting Championship was held here in 2001. In total there are over 100 Rapids in the 25 miles of river. , Dam Facts. Max flow : 14,800 cfs (cubic feet per second) . 2nd highest earthen dam in the Eastern U.S. . Cost $48,075,800 to construct. . The Dam is 390 feet high and 2,280 feet long. . Through 2015, it has prevented over 771 million dollars in flood damages.