Intrepid Potash Ponds A-D Dam, located in rural Eddy, New Mexico, is a privately-owned structure designated for tailings storage. The dam is classified as an Earth type, with a height of 14 feet and a storage capacity of 616 acre-feet. With a surface area of 44 acres, the dam is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer in New Mexico and is subject to regular inspections and enforcement.
Despite its significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment, the dam is considered to have a moderate risk level. The last inspection took place in February 2019, with an inspection frequency of 3 years. While the dam has uncontrolled spillways, there are no locks associated with it. The primary purpose of the dam is to contain tailings, serving as a crucial component of the Intrepid Potash facility's operations along the Pecos River.
Overall, the Intrepid Potash Ponds A-D Dam represents a vital piece of water resource infrastructure in the region, providing storage capacity and management of tailings in an area with a moderate risk level. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the maintenance and monitoring of dams like this one become increasingly important to ensure their safety and efficiency in the face of evolving environmental conditions.