Big Branch Coal Refuse Facility
Key Takeaway
Big Branch Coal Refuse Facility is classified as high hazard in West Virginia. It was completed in 1997 and is 29 years old. Its primary use is other. 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 | 260 ft (taller than 93.4% in WV) |
| Dam Length | 1,900 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 4.8K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 3.9K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 72 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 58 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1997 (29 years old) |
| NID ID | WV01506 |
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
FOLA COAL COMPANY
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Big Branch Coal Refuse Facility?
Big Branch Coal Refuse Facility 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 Big Branch Coal Refuse Facility?
Big Branch Coal Refuse Facility is owned by FOLA COAL COMPANY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Big Branch Coal Refuse Facility built?
Big Branch Coal Refuse Facility was completed in 1997, making it 29 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Big Branch Coal Refuse Facility?
Big Branch Coal Refuse Facility serves the following purposes: Other. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Big Branch Coal Refuse Facility?
Big Branch Coal Refuse Facility has a dam height of 260 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.