Big Groundhog Slurry Impoundment

Pike, Kentucky· Earth· 412 ft tall

High Hazard Tailings Private

Key Takeaway

Big Groundhog 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	412 ft (taller than 98.5% in KY)
Dam Length	1,900 ft
Dam Type	Earth
Max Storage	10.8K acre-ft

NID ID	KY83459

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: No

State Regulated: No

Ownership

McCoy Elkhorn Coal Corp.

Private

Nearby Dams

Lick Branch Refuse Impoundment

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High Ridge Slurry Impoundment

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Scotts Branch Slurry Impoundment

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Sidney Slurry Impoundment

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Sukey Branch Slurry Impoundment

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Fishtrap Dam

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Upper Lick Branch Slurry Impoundment

Pike, KY

High Hazard 370 ft

Long Fork Slurry Impoundment

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High Hazard 665 ft

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Big Groundhog Slurry Impoundment?

Big Groundhog 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 Big Groundhog Slurry Impoundment?

Big Groundhog Slurry Impoundment is owned by McCoy Elkhorn Coal Corp. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Big Groundhog Slurry Impoundment?

Big Groundhog 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 Big Groundhog Slurry Impoundment?

Big Groundhog Slurry Impoundment has a dam height of 412 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.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.