the dam that created Claytor Lake was built between 1937-1939
Source: Virginia State Parks, Claytor Lake State Park Virtual History Tour
the dam that created Claytor Lake was built between 1937-1939
Source: Virginia State Parks, Claytor Lake State Park Virtual History Tour
Appalachian Power Company completed the dam across the New River and created Claytor Lake in 1939. The 75MW hydropower facility has been licensed three times by the Federal government, with the current 30-year permit lasting until 2041.
The dam backs up the New River for 21 miles, creating a 4,472-acre lake at full pool. The average lake depth is 50 feet. Fishing is enhanced by collecting Christmas trees and using them to create underwater "structure," increasing the quality of the habitat.1
Claytor Lake was created by damming the New River at Radford
Source: Virginia State Parks, Claytor Lake State Park Virtual History Tour
opening the gates at Claytor Lake dam in 1940
Source: Virginia State Parks, Claytor Lake State Park Virtual History Tour
Lowman's Ferry across the New River was replaced by a bridge to carry State Route 672 across Claytor Lake (ferry pier is in lower left)
Source: Virginia State Parks, Claytor Lake State Park Virtual History Tour
Lowman's Ferry Bridge, today
Source: Virginia State Parks, Claytor Lake State Park Virtual History Tour
Pulaski County view, upstream of Claytor Lake State Park