SUTTON DAM CELEBRATES GOLDEN ANNIVERSARY - Calhoun Dam Project Passed-By

(07/28/2011)

Sutton Dam (Photo courtesy of WV Division
of Tourism - Steve Shaluta, photographer

It has been a frequent destination for folks from Calhoun and central WV for 50 years. The Sutton Dam is celebrating a golden anniversary.

Authorization for the flood control project was included in a Congressional act in 1938, but construction didn't began until 1956 with the dam being dedicated in 1961.

The 1930s flood control projects included a dam on the West Fork of the Little Kanawha River, a short distance above Creston.

While Sutton and Burnsville dams were built, the West Fork project was never moved ahead.

It would have created a massive lake, backing water to Arnoldsburg.

"Sutton Dam has been providing flood control for the Kanawha Valley and Ohio River for 50-years now. To date it's saved over 400-Million dollars in flood damage down stream," said Resources Manager David Eskridge.

While its main purpose is flood control of the Holly and Elk Rivers, the dam and lake have become wildly popular for water recreation enthusiasts.

About a half-million people come to the area every year to enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, camping, and picnics. Most locals can't imagine life without Sutton Lake.