Sidney Slurry Impoundment Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Sidney Slurry Impoundment, also known as the Monroe Smith Slurry Impoundment, is a private earth dam located in Pike, Kentucky.
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Summary
This tailings impoundment has a height of 665 feet and a storage capacity of 10,479 acre-feet. Despite being classified as non-regulated by the state, the impoundment is under the jurisdiction of the Mine Safety and Health Administration, with high hazard potential due to its size and location.
This massive structure, completed in an unspecified year, poses significant risks in the event of a failure, as evidenced by its high hazard potential rating. With no available condition assessment or emergency action plan, there are concerns about the impoundment's safety and the potential impacts on the surrounding environment and communities in case of a catastrophic event. The lack of regulatory oversight and limited information raise important questions about the management and monitoring of this critical water resource.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Sidney Slurry Impoundment presents a complex and concerning case study in the realm of dam safety and environmental risk management. With its enormous size, high hazard potential, and limited oversight, this structure serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive monitoring, regulation, and emergency preparedness in safeguarding our water resources and communities from potential disasters. Further research and attention are needed to ensure the safety and integrity of this impoundment and others like it across the country.
Dam Length |
2660 |
Dam Height |
665 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
10479 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
665 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Tug Fork At Williamson
|
365cfs |
Johns Creek Near Meta
|
21cfs |
Grapevine Creek Near Phyllis
|
5cfs |
Tug Fork At Kermit
|
492cfs |
Levisa Fork At Pikeville
|
1460cfs |
Levisa Fork At Big Rock
|
134cfs |
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.
Sidney Slurry Impoundment