Britton Branch Refuse Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Britton Branch Refuse Dam, also known as Britton Branch Refuse Dam #5, is a privately owned earth dam located in Leslie County, Kentucky.
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Summary
The dam serves primarily for water supply purposes and is associated with tailings management as well. With a height of 250 feet and a length of 940 feet, this high hazard potential dam has a storage capacity of 6,064 acre-feet.
Managed by the Mine Safety and Health Administration, Britton Branch Refuse Dam poses a significant risk due to its high hazard potential. While the condition assessment is not available, the dam has not been regulated or inspected by the state regulatory agency. It is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor the dam's status and potential risks to ensure proper maintenance and emergency preparedness.
As one of the key structures in the area, Britton Branch Refuse Dam plays a crucial role in water supply management for the region. With its location in Chappell and ownership under private entities, the dam highlights the importance of proper infrastructure management and monitoring in the face of changing climate and water resource challenges.
Dam Length |
940 |
Dam Height |
250 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
6064 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
250 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Cumberland River Near Harlan
|
582cfs |
Cutshin Creek At Wooton
|
25cfs |
Martins Fork Near Smith
|
144cfs |
North Fork Kentucky River At Hazard
|
293cfs |
Poor Fork At Cumberland
|
103cfs |
Martins Fork Above Smith
|
59cfs |
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.
Britton Branch Refuse Dam