Poly Met Hrf Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Poly Met Hrf Dam, also known as the Hydrometallurgical Residue Facility, is a private-owned structure located in Embarrass, St.


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Summary

Louis County, Minnesota. This earth dam stands at a height of 111 feet and spans a length of 950 feet, with a surface area of 97 acres. Its primary purpose is for tailings storage and it is regulated by the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.

With a significant hazard potential, Poly Met Hrf Dam remains in "Not Rated" condition as its last assessment date is unknown. Although it has not been assigned an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) or updated contact information for emergency situations, the dam undergoes inspections every four years. Positioned within the St. Paul District of the US Army Corps of Engineers, this dam plays a crucial role in managing waste materials in the region.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the Poly Met Hrf Dam can appreciate its unique design by BARR Engineering and its role in storing tailings in the area. Its location in Minnesota and ownership by a private entity adds to the intrigue surrounding this structure, making it a focal point for those interested in water resource management and environmental stewardship.

Dam Length

950

Dam Height

111

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

97

Structural Height

111

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

111
       
Seasonal Comparison

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Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.