Polymet-Ltv Reservoir Report
Nearby: Erie Basin 1 Erie Basin 2
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Polymet-Ltv is a privately owned tailings dam located in Embarrass, Minnesota, on the Embarrass River.
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Summary
Built in 1981 by LTV, this earth dam stands at 65 feet tall and spans 7000 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 3000 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections, with a fair condition assessment as of 2015.
With a significant hazard potential and moderate risk assessment rating, Polymet-Ltv poses a challenge for water resource and climate enthusiasts. The dam's primary purpose is to contain tailings, and its fair condition raises concerns about potential environmental impacts in the event of a failure. The surrounding St. Louis County, Minnesota community, and the Embarrass River ecosystem could be at risk in the event of a breach, highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts.
Despite its fair condition assessment, Polymet-Ltv has not had an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) prepared or updated recently, raising questions about preparedness in the event of an emergency. With a significant hazard potential and moderate risk assessment, there is a need for proactive risk management measures and regular inspections to ensure the safety and integrity of this crucial water resource infrastructure. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the condition and regulatory oversight of Polymet-Ltv is essential in understanding the potential environmental implications and risks associated with this dam.
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
7000 |
Dam Height |
65 |
River Or Stream |
EMBARRASS RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
200 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
3000 |
Structural Height |
69 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
69 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Heritage City Park
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Fisherman's Point CityCampground
|
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Fishermans Point City Campground
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Bear Head Lake State Park
|
||
Temperance State Park
|
Polymet-Ltv