Western Branch Dam

Western Branch Nansemond River - VAHU6 JL47 Western Branch Reservoir· Suffolk, Virginia· Earth· 41 ft tall

High Hazard Water Supply Recreation Local Government

Key Takeaway

Western 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	41 ft (taller than 87.7% in VA)
Dam Length	2,400 ft
Dam Type	Earth
Max Storage	35.3K acre-ft
Normal Storage	18.0K acre-ft

Surface Area	1,250 acres
Drainage Area	66 sq mi
NID ID	VA800011

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: July 7, 2020

State Regulated: Yes

Regulatory Agency: Department of Conservation and Recreation

Ownership

City of Norfolk, Department of Utilities

Local Government

Nearby Dams

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Izaak Walton Dam

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Rountree South Dam

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Lake Prince Dam

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Godwin - Culpepper Dam

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Brights Dam

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Lake Meade Dam

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High Hazard 25 ft

Lake Burnt Mills Dam

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High Hazard 47 ft

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Western Branch Dam?

Western 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 Western Branch Dam?

Western Branch Dam is owned by City of Norfolk, Department of Utilities (Local Government). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Western Branch Dam?

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

How tall is Western Branch Dam?

Western Branch Dam has a dam height of 41 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 Western Branch Dam last inspected?

Western Branch Dam was last inspected on July 7, 2020. 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.