Lick Branch Refuse Impoundment

Pike, Kentucky· Earth· 250 ft tall
High Hazard Tailings Private

Key Takeaway

Lick Branch Refuse 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 250 ft (taller than 95.6% in KY)
Dam Length930 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage5.3K acre-ft
NID IDKY83563

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

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Upper Lick Branch Slurry Impoundment

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Lick Branch Refuse Impoundment?

Lick Branch Refuse 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 Lick Branch Refuse Impoundment?

Lick Branch Refuse 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 Lick Branch Refuse Impoundment?

Lick Branch Refuse 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 Lick Branch Refuse Impoundment?

Lick Branch Refuse Impoundment has a dam height of 250 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.