Holden #22 Slurry Impoundment Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 10, 2025
Holden #22 Slurry Impoundment in Holden, West Virginia, is a private tailings dam managed by the Mine Safety and Health Administration.
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Summary
This Earth dam stands at an impressive 355 feet in height and stretches 600 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 20 acre-feet. Despite being unregulated by the state, this high hazard potential impoundment poses a significant risk to the surrounding environment and community.
Located in Logan County, this slurry impoundment has not been assessed for condition, emergency action planning, or risk management measures. With no state jurisdiction, regulation, inspection, or enforcement in place, the potential dangers of this structure remain unknown. The lack of information on the dam's current state and emergency preparedness raises concerns among water resource and climate enthusiasts, urging for closer monitoring and assessment of its safety measures.
As a critical infrastructure for the mining operations in the area, the Holden #22 Slurry Impoundment's high hazard potential and proximity to the community highlight the importance of implementing thorough safety protocols and regular inspections. The limited data available on its condition and emergency response plans underscore the need for increased transparency and accountability in managing this significant water resource in West Virginia.
Dam Length |
600 |
Dam Height |
355 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
20 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
355 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Guyandotte River At Logan
|
1230cfs |
Guyandotte River At Man
|
968cfs |
Tug Fork At Williamson
|
300cfs |
Tug Fork At Kermit
|
406cfs |
East Fork Twelvepole Creek Near Dunlow
|
13cfs |
Clear Fork At Clear Fork
|
64cfs |
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.
Holden #22 Slurry Impoundment