Moccasin Hollow Impoundment Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 9, 2025
Moccasin Hollow Impoundment is a privately owned dam in Boone, West Virginia, completed in 1999 for the primary purpose of storing tailings.
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Summary
With a height of 310 feet and a length of 820 feet, this dam has a maximum storage capacity of 2452 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 39 acres. The impoundment is located on the Moccasin Hollow river and falls under the jurisdiction of the Mine Safety and Health Administration for regulation and inspections.
Despite not being state-regulated, Moccasin Hollow Impoundment poses a high hazard potential due to its size and location. The condition of the dam is currently not rated, and there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place. The dam has not been assessed for risk management measures, and there are no inundation maps prepared for potential emergencies. The surrounding area is at risk of flooding and residents should be aware of the potential dangers associated with this impoundment.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Moccasin Hollow Impoundment presents an interesting case study in dam safety and management. The lack of state regulation and monitoring raises concerns about the potential risks posed by the dam, especially in the event of an emergency. As efforts to enhance dam safety and preparedness continue to evolve, the impoundment serves as a reminder of the importance of proper maintenance and oversight in safeguarding water resources and communities from potential hazards.
Year Completed |
1999 |
Dam Length |
820 |
Dam Height |
310 |
River Or Stream |
MOCCASIN HOLLOW |
Primary Dam Type |
Other |
Surface Area |
39 |
Drainage Area |
0.33 |
Nid Storage |
2452 |
Structural Height |
310 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
310 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Clear Fork At Whitesville
|
19cfs |
Big Coal River At Ashford
|
234cfs |
Kanawha River At Kanawha Falls
|
2880cfs |
Gauley River Above Belva
|
1190cfs |
New River At Thurmond
|
2850cfs |
Kanawha River At Charleston
|
4570cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Moccasin Hollow Impoundment