Cadet Mine Tailings Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Tiff, Missouri, the Cadet Mine Tailings Dam stands as a testament to the mining industry's impact on water resources and climate in the region.


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Summary

Built in 1978, this private-owned dam has a height of 97 feet and a length of 3800 feet, holding a storage capacity of 103 acre-feet. The dam is regulated by the DAM AND RESERVOIR SAFETY PROG in Missouri and is inspected every two years to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

With a high hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, the Cadet Mine Tailings Dam poses a moderate risk to the surrounding environment. The dam's purpose is primarily for tailings storage, with an earth and other type construction using a buttress core design. Although the dam has an uncontrolled spillway type, it has not reported any significant issues or modifications in recent years. The dam is situated along the TR-MILL CREEK, impacting the local ecosystem and water quality in the area.

For water resource and climate enthusiasts, the Cadet Mine Tailings Dam serves as a focal point for understanding the intersection of mining activities, dam infrastructure, and environmental stewardship. As the debate over the impact of dams on local ecosystems and communities continues, this dam's history and regulatory oversight offer valuable insights into the challenges of managing water resources in a changing climate. The Cadet Mine Tailings Dam stands as a reminder of the importance of sustainable practices in the mining industry and the need for robust regulatory frameworks to protect our water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1978

Dam Length

3800

Dam Height

97

River Or Stream

TR-MILL CREEK

Surface Area

2

Drainage Area

47

Nid Storage

103

Structural Height

97

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

97
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

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.