Paradise Fossil Plant - Coal Wash Fines Pond #3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Paradise Fossil Plant - Coal Wash Fines Pond #3 is a federally owned tailings dam located in Muhlenberg, Kentucky, near the Green River.


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Summary

Designed by TVA and completed in 1994, this earth dam stands at a height of 99 feet with a hydraulic height of 95 feet. With a storage capacity of 92 acre-feet and a surface area of 80 acres, this dam serves the primary purpose of storing tailings from coal washing operations.

Despite its low hazard potential, Paradise Fossil Plant - Coal Wash Fines Pond #3 underwent structural modifications in 2004 to enhance its safety and stability. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 8 feet, and it has not experienced any significant issues. The last inspection in January 2020 confirmed its satisfactory condition, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. While the dam does not currently have an Emergency Action Plan in place, it meets regulatory guidelines and is managed by the Tennessee Valley Authority.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will appreciate the strategic location of Paradise Fossil Plant - Coal Wash Fines Pond #3 along the Green River, contributing to efficient tailings management in the region. The dam's design and construction by TVA, a key federal agency, reflect a commitment to environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance. With a history of responsible operation and periodic inspections, this dam stands as a reliable component of the local water infrastructure, ensuring minimal environmental impact and safeguarding against potential risks.

Years Modified

2004 - Structural

Year Completed

1994

Dam Length

10080

Dam Height

99

River Or Stream

GREEN RIVER - OFFSTREAM

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

80

Hydraulic Height

95

Drainage Area

0.14

Nid Storage

92

Structural Height

99

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

99
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.