Big Branch Coal Refuse Facility
May 2, 2024
Big Branch Coal Refuse Facility in Clay, West Virginia, is a privately owned dam with a height of 260 feet and a length of 1900 feet completed in 1997. The dam is situated on the Big Branch of Lilly Fork and has a storage capacity of 4828 acre-feet, serving a primary purpose of "other." The facility is regulated by the Mine Safety and Health Administration and is subject to state inspection and enforcement.
With a hazard potential rated as high, the condition of the dam is currently not rated, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance. The dam's drainage area is 0.53 square miles, and it covers a surface area of 71.7 acres. Despite its critical role in water resource management, the dam lacks an emergency action plan and has not undergone a risk assessment.
Given its significant storage capacity and location near residential areas, the Big Branch Coal Refuse Facility presents a potential risk in the event of a dam failure. To ensure the safety of the surrounding community and the integrity of the dam, it is essential for proper risk management measures to be implemented, including the development of an emergency action plan and regular condition assessments.
| Year_Completed | 1997 |
| Dam_Height | 260 |
| River_Or_Stream | BIG BRANCH OF LILLY FORK |
| Dam_Length | 1900 |
| Primary_Dam_Type | Earth |
| Surface_Area | 71.7 |
| Hydraulic_Height | 260 |
| Drainage_Area | 0.53 |
| Nid_Storage | 4828 |
| Structural_Height | 260 |
| Hazard_Potential | High |
| Nid_Height | 260 |
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