Long Branch Reservoir
Long Branch Reservoir is an earth dam located in Putnam County, West Virginia, built in 1992. It carries a High hazard potential classification and has a satisfactory condition assessment.
About Long Branch Reservoir
The primary purpose of Long Branch Reservoir is water supply. The dam stores water for municipal, industrial, or agricultural use, helping ensure a reliable supply for the surrounding area. The dam is owned by South Putnam Psd (local government). It impounds the Long Branch Tri-of Poplar Fk. near Frazier's Bottom.
The dam stands 109 feet tall and stretches 604 feet across, creates a reservoir covering 45 acres, and has a maximum storage capacity of 1,963 acre-feet. Completed in 1992, the structure is 34 years old.
This dam carries a high hazard potential classification, which means that a failure or uncontrolled release of water would likely cause loss of human life. This classification reflects the consequences of failure, not the likelihood — it indicates that people live or work in the area downstream. Its condition is rated satisfactory, indicating no existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. An emergency action plan is in place for this dam. The most recent inspection on record was 05/31/2024.
At 109 feet, this dam is taller than 98% of all dams in the United States.
Living Downstream
If you live or work downstream of this dam, consider taking these steps: learn your local evacuation routes, check whether your county emergency management office has a dam failure inundation map, and sign up for local emergency alerts. The West Virginia dam safety program can provide more specific information about emergency planning for this structure.
Search for dams near your address to see all dams in your area with hazard classifications and safety data.
Location
| State | West Virginia |
| County | Putnam |
| Nearest City | Frazier's Bottom |
| River/Stream | Long Branch Tri-of Poplar Fk. |
| Coordinates | 38.48056, -81.92000 |
Physical Characteristics
| Dam Type | Earth |
| NID Height | 109 ft |
| Dam Height | 109 ft |
| Dam Length | 604 ft |
| Year Completed | 1992 (34 years old) |
Storage & Hydraulics
| NID Storage | 1,963 acre-ft |
| Max Storage | 1,963 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1,660 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 45 acres |
Ownership & Safety
| Purpose | Water Supply |
| Owner | SOUTH PUTNAM PSD |
| Owner Type | Local Government |
| Hazard Classification | High |
| Condition Assessment | Satisfactory |
| Last Inspection | 05/31/2024 |
| Emergency Action Plan | Yes |
Identifiers
| NID ID | WV07921 |
| Federal ID | WV07921 |
| More Info | State Dam Safety Program |