Cedar Branch Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Cedar Branch Dam, located in Fayette, West Virginia, stands as a testament to the intersection of water resource management and climate impacts.


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Summary

Built in 1979 for recreational purposes, this private-owned earth dam spans 336 feet in length and reaches a height of 23.3 feet, with a storage capacity of 115.6 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the Cedar Branch river, not only offers recreational opportunities but also serves as a critical infrastructure for water conservation in the region.

Despite its primary purpose for recreation, Cedar Branch Dam holds a high hazard potential, prompting a biennial inspection frequency to ensure its structural integrity and compliance with state regulations. The dam, regulated by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection (DWWM), holds a state permit for operation and undergoes regular inspections to uphold safety standards. With its strategic location and critical role in water management, Cedar Branch Dam serves as a vital asset in the region's water resource infrastructure, showcasing the importance of sustainable practices in the face of changing climate conditions.

As climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates take note of Cedar Branch Dam, its significance as a recreational and water conservation structure underscores the ongoing challenges and opportunities in managing water resources amidst a changing climate. With a commitment to safety, regulation, and sustainability, Cedar Branch Dam stands as a symbol of resilience and adaptation in the face of climate impacts, highlighting the crucial role of infrastructure in safeguarding our water supply for current and future generations.

Year Completed

1979

Dam Length

336

Dam Height

23.3

River Or Stream

CEDAR BRANCH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Hydraulic Height

15

Drainage Area

0.63

Nid Storage

115.6

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

23
       
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.