Pike Island Locks and Dam facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Pike Island Lock and Dam
Official name	Pike Island Lock and Dam
Location	Ohio/West Virginia border
Coordinates	40°09′01″N 80°42′12″W / 40.1504°N 80.7034°W / 40.1504; -80.7034
Construction began	1959
Opening date	November 1963
Operator(s)	United States Army Corps of Engineers Pittsburgh District
Dam and spillways
Type of dam	Gated
Impounds	Ohio River
Reservoir
Normal elevation	644 feet above sealevel

The Pike Island Lock and Dam is an important structure on the Ohio River. It is the fifth lock and dam system you would find if you traveled downstream from Pittsburgh. This dam helps control the river's water level and allows boats to travel safely.

What is Pike Island Lock and Dam?

Pike Island Lock and Dam is located about 84 miles downstream from Pittsburgh. It sits right on the border between the states of Ohio and West Virginia. This system is made up of a dam and two special sections called locks.

The dam itself helps to create a deeper pool of water upstream. This deeper water makes it easier for large boats and barges to move along the river. The locks are like elevators for boats, helping them move between different water levels.

How Do Locks and Dams Work?

Imagine a river that has different heights, like steps. A lock and dam system helps boats go up or down these "steps." The dam holds back water to create a higher level on one side. The lock is a chamber with gates at both ends.

When a boat wants to go through, it enters the lock. The gates close, and water is either added to the chamber (to go up) or removed (to go down). Once the water level inside the lock matches the level outside, the other gate opens, and the boat can continue its journey.

At Pike Island, there are two locks. The main lock is very large, measuring 1,200 feet long and 110 feet wide. This is for big commercial barges that carry goods. There's also a smaller, auxiliary lock that is 600 feet long and 110 feet wide. This second lock can be used if the main one is busy or needs repairs.

Building a Big Dam

Building a structure as big as Pike Island Lock and Dam takes a lot of planning and hard work. Construction on this project began in 1959. It took several years to complete, and the dam officially opened in November 1963.

The United States Army Corps of Engineers is the group responsible for operating and maintaining this dam. They are a part of the U.S. government that manages many of the country's waterways and dams. Their job is to make sure the river stays safe and usable for everyone.

Why is it Important?

Pike Island Lock and Dam plays a big role in the region. It helps keep the Ohio River navigable, which means boats can travel on it easily. This is very important for moving goods and materials.

Keeping Rivers Navigable

Without locks and dams, many rivers would be too shallow in some places for large boats. The dams create deep pools of water, and the locks allow boats to bypass natural drops in the river's elevation. This makes river transportation possible and efficient.

Helping Boats and Barges

The Ohio River is a busy waterway. Many barges carry important things like coal, oil, chemicals, and agricultural products. These goods are vital for industries and communities. The Pike Island Lock and Dam ensures that these barges can move smoothly, helping the economy of the surrounding states.