Western Branch Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Western Branch Dam, also known as Western Branch Reservoir Dam, is a vital water resource infrastructure located in Suffolk, Virginia.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Managed by the local government, this Earth-type dam serves the primary purpose of water supply, with a storage capacity of 35,300 acre-feet and a surface area of 1,250 acres. The dam stands at a height of 41 feet and spans a length of 2,400 feet, regulating the flow of the Western Branch Nansemond River to ensure a stable water supply for the region.

Constructed by GEI Consultants Inc., the dam is regulated and inspected by the Department of Conservation and Recreation in Virginia. With a high hazard potential, the dam is categorized as having a moderate risk level and is deemed to be in satisfactory condition as of the last assessment in July 2020. The spillway, with a width of 500 feet, is designed as uncontrolled, emphasizing the importance of effective emergency preparedness and risk management measures for the surrounding community in case of a potential breach or flooding event. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Western Branch Dam serves as a critical infrastructure for water supply and recreational activities in Suffolk, showcasing the intersection of engineering, environmental conservation, and public safety in managing water resources in the region.

Dam Length

2400

Dam Height

41

River Or Stream

Western Branch Nansemond River - VAHU6 JL47 Western Branch Reservoir

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

1250

Drainage Area

65.66

Nid Storage

35300

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

41
       
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.