Salies Branch Slurry Impoundment Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Salies Branch Slurry Impoundment Dam in Wise, Virginia, is a significant structure with a height of 250 feet and a storage capacity of 6,672 acre-feet.


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Summary

Managed by the Mine Safety and Health Administration, this dam serves an undetermined hazard potential with a condition assessment that is not rated. The dam's purpose, dam type, and construction year are not specified in the data, highlighting the need for further investigation and assessment of its structural integrity.

Located in the Huntington District, the Salies Branch Slurry Impoundment Dam's proximity to the community poses potential risks that require close monitoring and emergency preparedness. Despite being unregulated by the state and having no inspection history, it is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to advocate for increased oversight and maintenance to ensure the safety and sustainability of this important infrastructure. With the dam's condition assessment not rated, there is a pressing need for a comprehensive risk assessment and management plan to address any potential vulnerabilities.

As enthusiasts concerned with water resources and climate change, the Salies Branch Slurry Impoundment Dam serves as a critical focal point for understanding the intersection of environmental policies and infrastructure management. By advocating for increased regulatory oversight, regular inspections, and emergency preparedness measures, stakeholders can work towards safeguarding the surrounding community and ecosystem from potential hazards. It is imperative to prioritize the safety and resilience of such structures in the face of evolving climate challenges and increasing water resource demands.

Dam Height

250

Surface Area

102.31

Hydraulic Height

250

Drainage Area

0.33

Nid Storage

6672

Structural Height

250

Hazard Potential

Undetermined

Nid Height

250
       
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.