Holz Dam

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Holz Dam, also known as Carbide's New Flyash Dam, is a private dam located in Kanawha, West Virginia. Completed in 1972, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 202.8 feet and has a maximum storage capacity of 1,090 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this dam is for tailings storage, with a normal storage capacity of 140 acre-feet and a surface area of 26.3 acres.

Managed by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection, Holz Dam is regulated and inspected for safety and compliance with state regulations. The dam has a high hazard potential, but its condition assessment as of 2009 was reported as satisfactory. The last inspection was conducted in June 2018, with an inspection frequency of every two years. While the dam has not experienced any modifications in recent years, it is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor its risk management measures and emergency action plan to ensure the safety of the surrounding area in case of any unforeseen events.

With its location in a critical watershed area and the potential impact of a dam failure on the Sugar Camp Creek, it is essential for stakeholders and authorities to remain vigilant in monitoring Holz Dam's condition and safety protocols. Understanding the dam's design, storage capacity, and past inspection reports can help in assessing the potential risks and developing effective emergency response plans. As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resource management, the resilience and safety of dams like Holz Dam become even more crucial in safeguarding communities and ecosystems.