Betsie Branch Refuse Impoundment Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Betsie Branch Refuse Impoundment, also known as the Betsie Branch Coal Refuse Facility, is a private-owned structure located in Bell, Kentucky.


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Summary

It serves as a tailings dam with a height of 191 feet and a storage capacity of 1194 acre-feet. The dam is primarily made of earth materials and spans a length of 1350 feet. Despite being unregulated by the state, it falls under the jurisdiction of the Mine Safety and Health Administration.

This high-hazard potential impoundment has not undergone recent condition assessments, and its emergency action plan status remains unknown. The last inspection took place in March 2021, with no information on potential risks or risk management measures. Situated in the Nashville District, this structure poses a significant risk to the surrounding environment and communities. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, monitoring and evaluating the Betsie Branch Refuse Impoundment's safety and compliance with regulations are crucial to prevent potential disasters and protect the ecosystem.

As a key component in managing coal refuse materials, the Betsie Branch Refuse Impoundment's design and construction details are vital for understanding its impact on water resources and the climate. With its location in Tejay, Kentucky, and under the ownership of a private entity, continued oversight and assessment are necessary to ensure the safety of the dam and surrounding areas. By staying informed and advocating for proper maintenance and regulation, enthusiasts can contribute to safeguarding water resources and mitigating the potential environmental risks associated with this structure.

Dam Length

1350

Dam Height

191

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

1194

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

191
       
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.