RAVENSWOOD, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The West Virginia Division of Natural Resources (WVDNR) has announced a public meeting to gather feedback on proposed plans to bring the Turkey Run Lake Dam in Jackson County into compliance with the West Virginia Dam Control and Safety Act.
The open-house style meeting is scheduled for Thursday, April 17, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Devilette Athletic Center in Ravenswood. Attendees will have the opportunity to review two proposed options for the dam at their own pace and share individual feedback. WVDNR staff will be available throughout the event to answer questions and provide additional information.
“Public input is crucial as we work to bring dams into compliance and ensure the safety of our communities,” said WVDNR Director Brett McMillion. “Listening to the concerns and insights of the public strengthens our decision-making process as we work to safeguard our wildlife resources and the people who rely on them.”
The Turkey Run Lake Dam, part of the Turkey Run Lake Wildlife Management Area, was built in 1964 and opened to anglers in 1966. It currently does not meet the provisions of the West Virginia Dam Control and Safety Act (§22-14-1) and is considered potentially unsafe during heavy rainfall.
Two options are being considered:
-
Option 1: Repair the dam by reinforcing the embankment and constructing a bridge to handle stormwater overflow. Estimated cost is $30 million. This option could cause years of disruption to nearby traffic and homes but would maintain the existing lake.
-
Option 2: Remove the dam and restore the area to a natural stream system, increasing habitat for wildlife, creating a fishing pond, adding wildlife viewing areas, and expanding public trail access. This plan would be funded through the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection’s in-lieu fee program.
Those unable to attend the meeting may review the proposals and submit comments online at sites.google.com/wv.gov/turkey-run-dam/home. Public comments are due by May 2.
Turkey Run Lake WMA is one of 96 Wildlife Management Areas maintained by the WVDNR to provide public access to outdoor recreation throughout the state. More information is available at WVdnr.gov/wildlife-management-areas.
