Plummer Basin East Tailings Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Plummer Basin East Tailings, also known as East Plummer Basin Dam, is a private-owned structure located in Itasca, Minnesota.
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Summary
Constructed in 1956 by MAGNETATION, this dam serves the primary purpose of storing tailings. With a height of 50 feet and a storage capacity of 8,000 acre-feet, the dam is designed as a buttress type with a controlled spillway system. Despite its low hazard potential and a very high risk assessment rating, the dam has not been officially rated for its condition as of the last inspection in June 2016.
Situated on the Swan River-OS, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the area. It is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, which oversees its permitting, inspection, and enforcement activities. While it has not been modified in recent years, its risk management measures and emergency preparedness plans are not clearly defined. With its unique design and historical significance, the Plummer Basin East Tailings serve as a key feature in the local water infrastructure landscape.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Plummer Basin East Tailings offer a fascinating case study in dam engineering and management. Its location in a scenic area of Minnesota, coupled with its functional purpose of storing tailings, presents a unique blend of environmental and industrial significance. As efforts continue to assess and manage its risk potential, this dam remains a focal point for understanding the intersection of water resource management and infrastructure development in the region.
Year Completed |
1956 |
Dam Height |
50 |
River Or Stream |
SWAN RIVER-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Other |
Surface Area |
160 |
Drainage Area |
0.25 |
Nid Storage |
8000 |
Structural Height |
50 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
50 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Prairie River Near Taconite
|
63cfs |
Mississippi River At Grand Rapids
|
633cfs |
Mississippi River At Aitkin
|
1010cfs |
St. Louis River At Scanlon
|
517cfs |
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.
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