Red Dog Mine Water Diversion Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

The Red Dog Mine Water Diversion Dam, located in Kivalina, Alaska, was completed in 1991 and is owned by a private entity.


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Summary

Designed by COMINCO ALASKA, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 25 feet with a structural height of 34 feet, serving primarily as a flood risk reduction measure along the Red Dog Creek. With a storage capacity of 58 acre-feet and a maximum discharge capability of 75 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow in the area.

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the Red Dog Mine Water Diversion Dam is subject to state regulation and inspection by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet, along with needle outlet gates for water release. With a drainage area of 0.34 square miles and a surface area of 5 acres, the dam contributes to the overall flood risk reduction efforts in the Northwest Arctic region, providing a vital infrastructure for water resource management in the area.

In the event of an emergency, the dam's emergency action plan (EAP) status and risk assessment are currently unspecified. With a moderate risk rating attributed to the structure, ongoing risk management measures may be necessary to ensure the continued safety and functionality of the Red Dog Mine Water Diversion Dam. As a key component of the local water resource infrastructure, the dam serves as a critical asset for climate and water enthusiasts interested in the intersection of water management and environmental conservation efforts in Alaska.

Year Completed

1991

Dam Length

350

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

RED DOG CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

5

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

0.34

Nid Storage

58

Structural Height

34

Outlet Gates

Needle

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

34
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
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