Lucky Friday No 3, located in Idaho along the South Fork Coeur d'Alene River, is a private tailings dam with a significant hazard potential and fair condition assessment. Completed in 1979, this earth dam stands at a height of 102 feet and has a hydraulic height of 98 feet, providing storage for 1130 acre-feet of water. The dam spans 3400 feet in length and covers a surface area of 25 acres, serving the primary purpose of storing tailings.

Despite being state regulated and inspected, Lucky Friday No 3 poses a high risk due to its condition and hazard potential. The dam features a valve outlet gate and does not have a spillway, raising concerns about its ability to handle potential overflow events. While it meets state permitting and enforcement requirements, there are no specific risk management measures or emergency action plans in place, highlighting the need for continued monitoring and maintenance to ensure the safety of nearby communities and the environment.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is crucial to stay informed about the infrastructure and risks associated with dams like Lucky Friday No 3. Understanding the dam's design, purpose, and potential hazards can help advocate for proper maintenance and emergency preparedness measures to mitigate the risk of dam failure and protect the surrounding area from potential flooding and environmental damage. By staying engaged with regulatory agencies and monitoring the dam's condition, we can work towards ensuring the long-term safety and sustainability of our water resources.