Bear Branch Slurry Impoundment
Key Takeaway
Bear Branch Slurry Impoundment is classified as high hazard in Kentucky. Its primary use is tailings. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 258 ft (taller than 95.8% in KY) |
| Dam Length | 970 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.2K acre-ft |
| NID ID | KY83567 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
Beech Fork Processing Inc.
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Bear Branch Slurry Impoundment?
Bear Branch Slurry Impoundment is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Bear Branch Slurry Impoundment?
Bear Branch Slurry Impoundment is owned by Beech Fork Processing Inc. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
What is the primary purpose of Bear Branch Slurry Impoundment?
Bear Branch Slurry Impoundment serves the following purposes: Tailings. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Bear Branch Slurry Impoundment?
Bear Branch Slurry Impoundment has a dam height of 258 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.