White Pine Mine North Tailings Dam #1 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

White Pine Mine North Tailings Dam #1, also known as Bedell Creek #2 Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Silver City, Michigan.


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Summary

Constructed in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet with a length of 450 feet, primarily serving the purpose of tailings storage for the mining operation. The dam has a storage capacity of 255 acre-feet and is regulated by the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (DEGLE).

Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, the dam poses a moderate risk according to a rating of 3. The last inspection conducted in May 2019 revealed no significant issues, and regular inspections are mandated every 5 years to ensure the safety and integrity of the structure. In the event of an emergency, the dam lacks a prepared Emergency Action Plan (EAP) and inundation maps, indicating areas where management improvements could be made to enhance risk mitigation strategies.

Overall, White Pine Mine North Tailings Dam #1 plays a crucial role in the management of tailings from the mining activities in the area, with a focus on maintaining the safety of nearby communities and water resources. Efforts to address the moderate risk level associated with the dam and improve emergency preparedness can contribute to the sustainable operation of this essential infrastructure in the region.

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

450

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

Bedell Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

19

Hydraulic Height

30

Drainage Area

9

Nid Storage

255

Structural Height

30

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
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.