Hibbing Taconite Starter No. 1 is a private-owned dam located in Chisholm, Minnesota, along the Day Brook river. The dam, classified as an Earth type with a height of 100 feet and a length of 2300 feet, serves the primary purpose of managing tailings. With a storage capacity of 125,000 acre-feet, the dam is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2009 deemed it satisfactory, and it is equipped with emergency action plans in case of any unforeseen events. The last inspection in 2017 indicated that the dam meets regulatory standards and poses no immediate threat to the surrounding area. With a drainage area of 2.8 square miles, the dam plays a crucial role in controlling water flow and protecting downstream communities from potential flooding risks.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find Hibbing Taconite Starter No. 1 an intriguing structure that highlights the importance of proper dam management in safeguarding water resources and mitigating environmental impacts. As a key component in tailings management for the mining industry, this dam exemplifies the collaborative efforts between private owners and state regulatory agencies to ensure the safety and sustainability of water infrastructure in Minnesota.