Chino Mines Tailings Dam No. 7

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Chino Mines Tailings Dam No. 7, located in Grant County, New Mexico, stands as a significant structure in the state's regulatory landscape. Completed in 1988, this private-owned dam serves primarily for tailings storage, with a design height of 230 feet and a length of 24,200 feet. The dam sits on a soil foundation and has a storage capacity of 19,800 acre-feet, encompassing a surface area of 1,317 acres.

Managed by the Office of the State Engineer, Chino Mines Tailings Dam No. 7 boasts a high hazard potential with a satisfactory condition assessment as of June 2020. Despite its uncontrolled spillway type, the dam undergoes inspections every five years, with the last one conducted in June 2020. The emergency action plan was last revised in June 2015, emphasizing preparedness for any potential risks associated with the dam.

With a moderate risk assessment rating, Chino Mines Tailings Dam No. 7 highlights the intersection of water resource management and climate considerations. As one of the key structures in the region's mining landscape, its design and operational intricacies underscore the importance of proactive risk management and adherence to state regulations for ensuring the safety and integrity of water resources in the area.