Bens Branch Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Bens Branch Dam, located in Wise, Virginia, is a gravity dam primarily used for water supply purposes.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 55 feet with a length of 266 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 403 acre-feet and serves a drainage area of 0.6 square miles. The dam is regulated by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

With a high hazard potential and a fair condition assessment as of August 2017, Bens Branch Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Despite its age and the lack of recent modifications, the dam continues to meet guidelines for emergency action plans and remains a key piece of infrastructure for water management in the area. As climate change impacts water availability and quality, dams like Bens Branch play a vital role in ensuring a sustainable water supply for communities.

Managed by the local government and situated in a picturesque location along Bens Branch river, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. As enthusiasts and advocates for sustainable water use, Bens Branch Dam stands as a symbol of the need for ongoing maintenance and investment in critical infrastructure to safeguard water resources for future generations.

Dam Length

266

Dam Height

55

River Or Stream

BENS BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Gravity

Surface Area

21

Hydraulic Height

55

Drainage Area

0.6

Nid Storage

403

Structural Height

55

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

55
       
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.