Four Mile Branch Slurry Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Four Mile Branch Slurry Dam, located in Knott County, Kentucky, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for tailings storage.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 350 feet and with a length of 1280 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 8416 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Mine Safety and Health Administration, with inspections conducted by the same agency.

With a high hazard potential, Four Mile Branch Slurry Dam poses a significant risk in the event of a failure. Unfortunately, the condition assessment of the dam is not available, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance to ensure its structural integrity. Emergency action plans and risk management measures for the dam are also not specified, raising concerns about the preparedness and response in case of an emergency.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Four Mile Branch Slurry Dam serves as a point of interest due to its size and potential impact on the surrounding area in the event of a breach. Monitoring and assessing the condition of this dam are crucial in ensuring the safety of the community and the environment. As such, continued oversight and maintenance of this structure are essential to mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation.

Dam Length

1280

Dam Height

350

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

8416

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

350
       
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.