Sporn Bottom Ash Dam

OHIO· Mason, West Virginia· Other· 42 ft tall
Significant Hazard Tailings Public Utility

Key Takeaway

Sporn Bottom Ash Dam is classified as significant hazard in West Virginia. Its primary use is tailings. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 42 ft (taller than 48% in WV)
Dam Length2,500 ft
Dam TypeOther
Max Storage279 acre-ft
Normal Storage205 acre-ft
Surface Area10 acres
NID IDWV05313

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.

Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: September 21, 2011
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: DWWM

Ownership

APPALACHIAN POWER CO

Public Utility

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Sporn Bottom Ash Dam?

Sporn Bottom Ash Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.

Who owns and operates Sporn Bottom Ash Dam?

Sporn Bottom Ash Dam is owned by APPALACHIAN POWER CO (Public Utility). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of Sporn Bottom Ash Dam?

Sporn Bottom Ash Dam 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 Sporn Bottom Ash Dam?

Sporn Bottom Ash Dam has a dam height of 42 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.

When was Sporn Bottom Ash Dam last inspected?

Sporn Bottom Ash Dam was last inspected on September 21, 2011. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

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.