Leer Slurry Cell Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

The Leer Slurry Cell is a crucial private-owned structure located in Grafton, West Virginia, designed for the primary purpose of tailings storage.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

With a towering dam height of 250 feet and a length of 4100 feet, this facility provides a massive storage capacity of 8540 acre-feet. Despite being classified as a high hazard potential structure, its condition assessment is currently unavailable, highlighting the importance of regular inspections and risk management measures.

Situated in Taylor County, the Leer Slurry Cell does not fall under state jurisdiction, permitting, inspection, or enforcement. Instead, it is regulated by the Mine Safety and Health Administration, emphasizing the significance of safety protocols in its operation. While the dam's construction year is unspecified, its sheer size and capacity make it a notable structure within the Huntington District of West Virginia.

The Leer Slurry Cell serves as a vital component in the region's water resource management, highlighting the intersection between industrial infrastructure and environmental conservation. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the intricacies of structures like the Leer Slurry Cell is essential for promoting sustainable practices and ensuring the safety of communities and ecosystems in the face of potential hazards.

Dam Length

4100

Dam Height

250

Primary Dam Type

Other

Nid Storage

8540

Hazard Potential

High

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.