The dam, with a maximum storage capacity of 460 acre-feet and a normal storage of 153 acre-feet, serves primarily for tailings disposal. Located in a high hazard potential area, the dam has a satisfactory condition assessment as of June 2018.
Constructed with a surface area of 103 acres, the East Boulder Tailings Dam poses a potential risk to the surrounding area in case of failure, prompting the need for regular inspections. The last inspection was conducted in February 2021, with an inspection frequency of every 5 years. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam meets regulatory guidelines and is equipped with emergency action plans to mitigate risks.
Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the significance of the East Boulder Tailings Dam as a critical structure for managing mine waste in the region. With its location in a picturesque setting in Sweet Grass, Montana, the dam serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining and regulating such structures to ensure the safety of nearby communities and the environment.
Surface Area |
103 |
Nid Storage |
460 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
East Boulder - Dispersed
|
||
East Boulder Campground
|
||
Big Beaver Campground
|
||
Big Beaver
|
||
Falls Creek
|
||
Chippy Park
|
Gallatin Forest Boundary, Sec. 26, T3S, R12E To Blakley Creek, Sec. 26, T3S, R12E
Blakley Creek, Sec. 26, T4S, R12E To Miller Creek, Sec 13, T4S, R21E
Miller Creek, Sec. 13, T4S, R21E To Bramble Creek, Sec. 26, T5S, R12E
Bible Run
Bramble Creek, Sec. 26, T5S, R12E To Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness, Sec. 22, T7S, R12E