Lackey Branch Slurry Impoundment Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Lackey Branch Slurry Impoundment is a privately owned structure located in Johnson County, Kentucky, near the city of Odds.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam stands at an impressive height of 265 feet and has a storage capacity of 10,431 acre-feet. The primary purpose of this impoundment is for the containment of tailings, making it a crucial resource for the mining activities in the region.

Despite not being regulated by the state, Lackey Branch Slurry Impoundment poses a high hazard potential due to its size and location. The Mine Safety and Health Administration is responsible for overseeing inspections and ensuring the safety of this structure. However, details on the condition assessment and emergency preparedness of the impoundment are not currently available, raising concerns about its resilience in the face of potential risks.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Lackey Branch Slurry Impoundment serves as a fascinating example of the intersection between mining operations and environmental stewardship. As discussions surrounding dam safety and hazard mitigation continue to gain traction, this structure stands out as a noteworthy case study in the ongoing efforts to balance economic development with ecological protection in Kentucky and beyond.

Dam Length

1525

Dam Height

265

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

10431

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

265
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.