Hibbing Taconite Starter No. 4, located in Chisholm, Minnesota, is a privately owned tailings dam regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources. This earth dam stands at 100 feet tall and stretches 5638 feet in length, with a storage capacity of 50,000 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Shannon River in St. Louis County and serves the primary purpose of storing tailings from the mining operation.

With a significant hazard potential, the dam's condition was last assessed as satisfactory in October 2009. Regular inspections are conducted every four years to ensure the structural integrity of the dam. Despite its age, the dam continues to meet regulatory standards and poses no immediate risk to the surrounding area. The dam's emergency action plan status and risk assessment information are not currently available, highlighting the importance of continued monitoring and preparedness for any potential emergencies.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Hibbing Taconite Starter No. 4 presents an intriguing case study of a critical infrastructure project in the mining industry. The dam's location on the Shannon River and its role in managing tailings underscore the complex relationship between water resources and industrial activities. As efforts to address climate change intensify, understanding the management and regulation of dams like Hibbing Taconite Starter No. 4 will be crucial in ensuring the sustainability of water resources in mining regions.