Trace Branch Slurry Impoundment Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 7, 2025
Trace Branch Slurry Impoundment is a privately-owned structure located in East Lynn, West Virginia, along the Right Fork of Camp Creek.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
This tailings dam, completed in 1992, stands at a height of 320 feet and has a storage capacity of 12,191 acre-feet. With a surface area of 81.6 acres and a drainage area of 0.33 square miles, this impoundment is regulated by the West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection and is subject to regular inspections and enforcement measures.
Despite being categorized as a high hazard potential structure, the condition of Trace Branch Slurry Impoundment is currently noted as "Not Rated." The dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and risk management measures are all listed as unknown. It is important for water resource and climate enthusiasts to stay informed about the potential risks associated with this impoundment, especially given its proximity to populated areas and the potential environmental impacts in the event of a breach or failure. Further research and monitoring of this structure are crucial to ensure the safety and well-being of surrounding communities and ecosystems.
Year Completed |
1992 |
Dam Length |
3000 |
Dam Height |
320 |
River Or Stream |
RIGHT FORK OF CAMP CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
81.6 |
Hydraulic Height |
312.51 |
Drainage Area |
0.33 |
Nid Storage |
12191 |
Structural Height |
320 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
320 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Big Coal River At Ashford
|
240cfs |
Clear Fork At Whitesville
|
18cfs |
Kanawha River At Charleston
|
4580cfs |
Coal River At Tornado
|
441cfs |
Kanawha River At Kanawha Falls
|
6420cfs |
Pocatalico River At Sissonville
|
72cfs |
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.
Trace Branch Slurry Impoundment