"[1] Its primary purpose was to regulate the flow in the River Severn[2][3] to mitigate flooding and provide support for drinking water abstractions for the West Midlands.

Local opposition was strong against the construction of the reservoir as it would result in the flooding of much of the Clywedog valley and the drowning of 615 acres (2.5 km2) of agricultural land.

The political extremist group Mudiad Amddiffyn Cymru (MAC) was widely suspected of carrying out the bombing.

Clywedog Sailing Club operates on the lake, and Powys County Council's Staylittle Outdoor Centre delivers a range of adventure education both on the water and in the surrounding area.

The area around Clywedog dam is now a popular leisure destination offering scenic walks and wildlife watching.