West Branch Channel Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

West Branch Channel Dam is a local government-owned structure located in Newton Falls, Ohio, along the Mahoning River West Branch.


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Summary

Designed by Lynn, Kittinger, and Noble, this gravity-type dam primarily serves the purpose of water supply, with a storage capacity of 156 acre-feet and a surface area of 15 acres. Despite its relatively low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2016 rated it as poor, highlighting the need for maintenance and improvement.

Managed by the Department of Natural Resources in Ohio, West Branch Channel Dam is regulated, inspected, and enforced by the state authorities to ensure its safety and functionality. With a height of 15.5 feet and a length of 175 feet, this dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in Trumbull County. Although the dam is in need of repair and has a history of modifications, it continues to provide essential water supply services to the local community.

In light of its significance for water supply and potential risks associated with its current condition, West Branch Channel Dam serves as a focal point for water resource and climate enthusiasts. As efforts are made to address its maintenance needs and ensure its long-term sustainability, the dam remains a vital infrastructure element in the region's water management system, contributing to the resilience of the local ecosystem and community.

Dam Length

175

Dam Height

15.5

River Or Stream

MAHONING RIVER WEST BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

15

Drainage Area

101

Nid Storage

156

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

16
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.