SNOFLO

       

POLYMET-LTV

RESERVOIR LEVELS
March 23, 2025


35°F

This Afternoon

20°F

Tonight

11mph

Windspeed

96%

Humidity

Polymet-Ltv is a privately owned tailings dam located in Embarrass, Minnesota, on the Embarrass River. 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_Height 65
River_Or_Stream EMBARRASS RIVER-TR
Dam_Length 7000
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
       

Weather Forecast

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