West Branch Reservoir Dam
Key Takeaway
West Branch Reservoir Dam is classified as high hazard in New Jersey. It was completed in 1930 and is 96 years old. Its primary use is recreation. 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 | 39 ft (taller than 94.9% in NJ) |
| Dam Length | 330 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Normal Storage | 465 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 33 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 0 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1930 (96 years old) |
| NID ID | NJ00372 |
Safety Information
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?
Ownership
County of Somerset
Local Government
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What is the hazard classification of West Branch Reservoir Dam?
West Branch Reservoir 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 West Branch Reservoir Dam?
West Branch Reservoir Dam is owned by County of Somerset (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was West Branch Reservoir Dam built?
West Branch Reservoir Dam was completed in 1930, making it 96 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of West Branch Reservoir Dam?
West Branch Reservoir Dam serves the following purposes: Recreation. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is West Branch Reservoir Dam?
West Branch Reservoir Dam has a dam height of 39 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 West Branch Reservoir Dam last inspected?
West Branch Reservoir Dam was last inspected on September 23, 2021. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.