Sediment Pond 3 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Sediment Pond 3, located in Stuarts Draft, VA, is a private-owned water resource structure with a primary purpose of managing tailings.


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Summary

This Earth-type dam stands at 15 feet high and stretches 420 feet in length, providing a storage capacity of 22.13 acre-feet. Although not regulated by the state, this significant hazard potential structure is overseen by the Mine Safety and Health Administration, ensuring proper inspections and operations.

The dam, constructed by private owners, serves as a vital component in the local water management system, contributing to sediment control and tailings storage. Despite the lack of state regulation, the structure's condition assessment is currently not available, highlighting the need for further monitoring and evaluation to ensure its long-term stability and effectiveness. With no official emergency action plan in place, efforts to prepare for potential risk scenarios and improve hazard management measures could enhance the overall resilience of Sediment Pond 3.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts keen on understanding the intricate dynamics of sediment control and tailings management in Virginia will find Sediment Pond 3 to be a compelling case study. From its unique design and purpose to its oversight by the Mine Safety and Health Administration, this structure offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities associated with private-owned water management infrastructure. As discussions around climate change and water resource sustainability continue to evolve, Sediment Pond 3 stands as a notable example of how private entities play a crucial role in safeguarding critical water resources in the region.

Dam Length

420

Dam Height

15

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

22.13

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

15
       
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.