Pads Branch Slurry Impoundment is a privately owned tailings dam located in Manuel, Perry County, Kentucky.
Wind
Humidity
This earth-filled dam stands at a height of 67 feet and stretches for 3000 feet, with a storage capacity of 935.7 acre-feet. Despite not being regulated by the state, the Mine Safety and Health Administration oversees its operations and inspections, ensuring its hazard potential remains low.
The dam, primarily used for tailings storage, poses minimal risk according to available data, with its condition assessment marked as "Not Available." While information on emergency preparedness, risk assessment, and management measures is lacking, the dam's design and purpose align with industry standards. The surrounding area is deemed safe from potential inundation, indicating a low likelihood of catastrophic failure.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Pads Branch Slurry Impoundment presents an opportunity to study the engineering and environmental considerations of tailings dams in Kentucky. With its non-federal ownership and oversight by the Mine Safety and Health Administration, this structure serves as a case study in private dam management practices and regulatory frameworks. Further research into its operation, maintenance, and emergency response protocols could shed light on best practices for ensuring the safety and sustainability of similar impoundments in the region.
Dam Length |
3000 |
Dam Height |
67 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
935.7 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
67 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Trace Branch - Buckhorn Lake
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Gays Creek Campground
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Buckhorn Dam Rec Area - Buckhorn Lake
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