Left Abutment Slurry Impoundment Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 11, 2025

Located in East Lynn, Wayne, West Virginia, the Left Abutment Slurry Impoundment is a private earth dam with a height of 130 feet and a length of 1600 feet.


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Summary

The primary purpose of this structure is for tailings storage, with a storage capacity of 2215 acre-feet. While the dam is not state-regulated, it falls under the jurisdiction of the Mine Safety and Health Administration for inspection and enforcement.

With a high hazard potential, the Left Abutment Slurry Impoundment poses a significant risk in case of a failure. Unfortunately, the condition assessment of the dam is not available, and there is no Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared or updated. The lack of information on risk assessment and management measures raises concerns about the safety and preparedness of this impoundment in case of an emergency.

Given its location and potential impact on the surrounding area, it is crucial for water resource and climate enthusiasts to monitor the Left Abutment Slurry Impoundment closely and advocate for improved safety measures and contingency plans to mitigate the risks associated with this high-hazard structure.

Dam Length

1600

Dam Height

130

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Nid Storage

2215

Hazard Potential

High

Nid Height

130
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.