Phoenix Tailings Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Phoenix Tailings Dam, also known as Bmg Copper Tailings Dam, is a privately owned structure located in Lander, Nevada.
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Summary
This earth-type dam, completed in 1971, stands at a height of 173 feet with a hydraulic height of 101 feet. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, serving to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding events. The dam has undergone multiple structural modifications over the years, with the most recent being in 2013.
With a normal storage capacity of 82,596 acre-feet and a surface area of 480.9 acres, Phoenix Tailings Dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region. Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness. The last inspection in June 2019 rated its condition as fair, highlighting the ongoing commitment to maintaining the integrity of this essential infrastructure.
Managed by the Nevada Department of Water Resources, Phoenix Tailings Dam remains a key part of the water management system in Nevada. Its strategic location and design contribute to flood risk reduction efforts, showcasing the importance of sustainable water resource management in the face of changing climate patterns. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the role and condition of structures like Phoenix Tailings Dam is vital for ensuring the resilience of our water infrastructure in the long term.
Years Modified |
2005 - Structural, 2007 - Structural, 2009 - Structural, 2011 - Structural, 2013 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1971 |
Dam Length |
23220 |
Dam Height |
173 |
River Or Stream |
NONE |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
480.9 |
Hydraulic Height |
101 |
Drainage Area |
0.7 |
Nid Storage |
60360 |
Structural Height |
138 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
173 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Phoenix Tailings Dam