Stonecoal Branch Slurry Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Stonecoal Branch Slurry Dam, also known as the Stonecoal Refuse Slurry Impoundment, is a private earth dam located in Slemp, Kentucky.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Standing at a height of 365 feet with a length of 1380 feet, this dam primarily serves the purpose of tailings storage with a capacity of 3626 acre-feet. Despite being not regulated by the state, this dam falls under the oversight of the Mine Safety and Health Administration, emphasizing its critical role in ensuring the safety and integrity of the structure.

With a hazard potential classified as high, the condition assessment of Stonecoal Branch Slurry Dam is currently marked as "Not Available." While information regarding emergency action plans, risk assessments, and inundation maps are not readily accessible, the dam's risk management measures remain unspecified. It is important for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor the developments surrounding this dam due to its significance in tailings storage and potential environmental implications in the region.

Located in Perry County, Kentucky, the Stonecoal Branch Slurry Dam presents an intriguing case study for those interested in water resource management and climate resilience. As discussions on dam safety and regulatory oversight continue, the need for comprehensive monitoring and risk mitigation strategies for structures like Stonecoal Branch Slurry Dam becomes increasingly imperative to safeguard against potential hazards and ensure the sustainability of water resources in the area.

Dam Length

1380

Dam Height

365

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

3626

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

365
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.