Bens Branch Dam

BENS BRANCH· Wise, Virginia· Gravity· 55 ft tall

High Hazard Water Supply Local Government

Key Takeaway

Bens Branch Dam is classified as high hazard in Virginia. Its primary use is water supply. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height	55 ft (taller than 94.7% in VA)
Dam Length	266 ft
Dam Type	Gravity
Max Storage	403 acre-ft
Normal Storage	396 acre-ft

Surface Area	21 acres
Drainage Area	1 sq mi
NID ID	VA195009

Safety Information

High Hazard

Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes

Last Inspection: August 21, 2017

State Regulated: Yes

Regulatory Agency: Department of Conservation and Recreation

Ownership

Town of Appalachia

Local Government

Nearby Dams

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Black Creek Dam

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Band Mill Hollw Facility Dam

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Big Cherry Rcc Dam

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Upper Norton Reservoir Dam

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High Hazard 78 ft

Lower Norton Reservoir Dam

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Keokee Dam

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Wise County Dam #2

Wise, VA

Unknown 23 ft

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Bens Branch Dam?

Bens Branch Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Bens Branch Dam?

Bens Branch Dam is owned by Town of Appalachia (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Bens Branch Dam?

Bens Branch Dam serves the following purposes: Water Supply. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.

How tall is Bens Branch Dam?

Bens Branch Dam has a dam height of 55 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.

When was Bens Branch Dam last inspected?

Bens Branch Dam was last inspected on August 21, 2017. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.