White Pine Mine North Tailings Dam #2 Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

White Pine Mine North Tailings Dam #2, also known as North Pond #2, is a private structure located in Ontonagon, Michigan.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 75 feet and has a length of 42,240 feet. Completed in 1971, this dam serves the primary purpose of storing tailings from mining operations, with a maximum storage capacity of 39,000 acre-feet and a normal storage level of 27,000 acre-feet.

Situated near Native Creek, this dam has a significant hazard potential and is classified as having a satisfactory condition assessment as of May 2019. It is regularly inspected every four years to ensure its structural integrity and adherence to safety standards. Despite its moderate risk level, there are no emergency action plans in place, raising concerns about the preparedness for potential incidents or disasters.

Managed by a private entity, White Pine Mine North Tailings Dam #2 plays a crucial role in the local water resource management and environmental protection efforts. Its presence highlights the importance of proactive monitoring and maintenance practices to mitigate risks and safeguard both the surrounding ecosystem and nearby communities from potential hazards.

Year Completed

1971

Dam Length

42240

Dam Height

75

River Or Stream

Native Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

900

Hydraulic Height

75

Drainage Area

13.6

Nid Storage

39000

Structural Height

75

Hazard Potential

Significant

Nid Height

75
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.