Big Branch Impoundment Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Big Branch Impoundment, also known as Motts Branch Refuse Impoundment, is a privately owned earth dam located in Raven, Kentucky.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
With a height of 304 feet and a length of 1160 feet, it serves primarily for the storage of tailings. The dam has a storage capacity of 2617 acre-feet and is under the jurisdiction of the Mine Safety and Health Administration.
Despite being privately owned and not regulated by the state, Big Branch Impoundment has a high hazard potential, indicating the potential risk it poses to downstream areas in the event of a failure. The condition assessment of the dam is currently not available, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, monitoring and assessing the safety of dams like Big Branch Impoundment is crucial in understanding the potential impact of such structures on water resources and the environment. As the dam is not regulated by the state, there is a need for increased oversight and maintenance to mitigate the risks associated with its high hazard potential.
Dam Length |
1160 |
Dam Height |
304 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
2617 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
304 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Big Branch Impoundment