Mod Branch Dam No.5 Reservoir Report
Nearby: Mod Branch Dam No.3
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Mod Branch Dam No.5, located in McDowell, West Virginia, is a local government-owned structure primarily used for recreation.
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Summary
Built in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 43 feet and has a hydraulic height of 36 feet, with a storage capacity of 49 acre-feet. The dam spans 285 feet and covers a surface area of 3 acres, serving as a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts in the area.
While the dam's hazard potential is currently deemed undetermined and its condition unrated, it continues to provide valuable recreational opportunities to the community. With a picturesque location along the Mod Branch river, the dam offers a tranquil setting for fishing, boating, and other water-related activities. Despite lacking state regulation and inspection, Mod Branch Dam No.5 remains a beloved landmark for water resource and climate enthusiasts in West Virginia.
As the Wilmington District of the US Army Corps of Engineers oversees the dam, the structure's risk management measures and emergency action plans are currently not available. However, with its scenic surroundings and the potential for future enhancements to ensure safety and sustainability, Mod Branch Dam No.5 stands as a testament to the importance of responsible water resource management and conservation efforts in the region.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
285 |
Dam Height |
43 |
River Or Stream |
MOD BRANCH |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
3 |
Hydraulic Height |
36 |
Drainage Area |
1.02 |
Nid Storage |
49 |
Hazard Potential |
Undetermined |
Nid Height |
43 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tug Fork At Welch
|
90cfs |
Dry Fork At Beartown
|
59cfs |
Guyandotte River Near Baileysville
|
165cfs |
Clear Fork At Clear Fork
|
64cfs |
Panther Creek Near Panther
|
9cfs |
Bluestone River At Falls Mills
|
31cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Mod Branch #1 Dam