On December 19, 1984, Michael Kline interviewed John Reed, head of public relations for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, for an oral history project focusing on the Stonewall Jackson Dam removal in Lewis County, West Virginia. John Reed, who traveled from Pittsburgh to the dam site, discussed the complexities of the dam's construction and the extensive planning and coordination required among different districts and federal agencies. John Reed provides an overview of the Stonewall Jackson Dam project, emphasizing the intricate logistics involved in constructing the dam and the relocation of communities. The project, which spanned several decades, involved coordination between the Pittsburgh and Huntington districts, as well as adherence to guidelines set by state and federal environmental agencies. Reed explains that the project's initial estimations in the 1930s grossly underestimated the scope, which eventually expanded to involve over 20,000 acres. He clarifies that this increase was due to evolving project requirements and not deception. The interview also covers the challenges faced in real estate acquisition, which required balancing construction needs with the relocation of affected residents. Reed discusses the difficulties encountered in this process, including dealing with resistant landowners and the impact of the project on local communities. He highlights specific cases, such as the relocation of the Brownsville community, where buildings were demolished, and residents were scattered rather than relocated as a group. Reed also touches on the broader implications of the dam's construction, including its role in flood control, water quality improvement, and recreation. He mentions that while the dam provided significant benefits to the region, including flood control and water quality management, it also faced opposition from some local residents who were concerned about the loss of their homes and communities.