Millstone Branch Slurry Impoundment No. 1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Millstone Branch Slurry Impoundment No.
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Summary
1, located in Pike County, Kentucky, is a private earth dam with a primary purpose of storing tailings. Standing at a height of 285 feet and stretching 940 feet in length, this impoundment has a storage capacity of 2820 acre-feet. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Mine Safety and Health Administration, with no state regulatory oversight.
Despite being classified as a high hazard potential structure, the condition assessment of Millstone Branch Slurry Impoundment No. 1 is currently listed as "Not Available." With no inspection, enforcement, or permitting from the state regulatory agency, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are also lacking crucial information. Although it has not been modified since completion, the dam poses a significant risk due to its height and storage capacity.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts concerned about the safety and environmental impact of impoundments, Millstone Branch Slurry Impoundment No. 1 serves as a stark example of a potentially hazardous structure with limited oversight. Its high hazard potential, coupled with the lack of updated information on its condition and emergency preparedness, highlights the need for increased attention and proper regulation to prevent any potential disasters in the future.
Dam Length |
940 |
Dam Height |
285 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
2820 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
285 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tug Fork At Williamson
|
365cfs |
Tug Fork At Kermit
|
492cfs |
Johns Creek Near Meta
|
21cfs |
Levisa Fork At Pikeville
|
1460cfs |
Grapevine Creek Near Phyllis
|
5cfs |
East Fork Twelvepole Creek Near Dunlow
|
24cfs |
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.
Millstone Branch Slurry Impoundment No. 1