Bloss Branch Slurry Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Beverly, Kentucky, the Bloss Branch Slurry Dam is a private earth dam with a height of 535 feet and a storage capacity of 2693 acre-feet.


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Summary

The primary purpose of this dam is for tailings disposal, with no state regulation or inspection currently in place. Despite its high hazard potential, the condition assessment of the dam is not available, indicating a lack of recent maintenance or monitoring.

The Bloss Branch Slurry Dam falls under the jurisdiction of the Mine Safety and Health Administration, with no federal agency ownership or funding associated with its operation. With no emergency action plan in place or risk assessment conducted, there are concerns about the safety and potential environmental impact of this dam. Given its significant height and storage capacity, proper monitoring and maintenance are crucial to prevent any catastrophic failures and protect the surrounding areas in Clay County, Kentucky.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to advocate for increased regulations and inspections for structures like the Bloss Branch Slurry Dam to ensure the safety of the community and the environment. By pushing for regular maintenance, emergency preparedness, and risk assessments, we can help mitigate the potential hazards associated with high-risk dams like this one. It is imperative to prioritize the safety and protection of water resources in order to prevent any disasters or negative impacts on the ecosystem.

Dam Length

1500

Dam Height

535

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

2693

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

535
       
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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.