Nile Stone Slurry Impoundment Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 10, 2025

Nile Stone Slurry Impoundment, located in Thacker, West Virginia, is a privately owned earth dam structure built in 1993 with a primary purpose designated as 'Other'.


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Summary

This high hazard potential dam stands at a height of 272 feet, with a hydraulic height of 250 feet, and a length of 1440 feet. The impoundment has a storage capacity of 1705 acre-feet, with a surface area of 27 acres and a drainage area of 0.38 square miles.

Managed by the Mine Safety and Health Administration, Nile Stone Slurry Impoundment is regulated and inspected by the state agency, with enforcement and permitting also under state jurisdiction. While the condition assessment of the dam is currently not rated, it is crucial to note its high hazard potential and the need for regular inspections and maintenance to ensure safety. The impoundment is situated along the Conley Fork River and falls under the oversight of the Huntington District, with no associated locks or spillways.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts may find the Nile Stone Slurry Impoundment an intriguing case study for its unique design and purpose, as well as the challenges and responsibilities associated with managing a high hazard potential dam. The impoundment's location in Mingo County, West Virginia, adds to its significance in the region's water resource management landscape. With its notable height and storage capacity, it serves as a reminder of the importance of effective dam safety practices and the need for proactive measures to mitigate potential risks and ensure the security of surrounding communities and ecosystems.

Year Completed

1993

Dam Length

1440

Dam Height

272

River Or Stream

CONLEY FORK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

27

Hydraulic Height

250

Drainage Area

0.38

Nid Storage

1705

Structural Height

272

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

272
       
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.