Getchell Mine Tailings Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
The Getchell Mine Tailings Dam, located in Golconda, Nevada, is a privately owned structure regulated by the Nevada Department of Water Resources.
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Summary
This Earth-type dam stands at a height of 150 feet and has a storage capacity of 10,000 acre-feet, primarily used for tailings disposal. Situated on Rabbit Creek, the dam's purpose is to contain waste materials from mining activities, with a low hazard potential and a high risk assessment rating.
Despite not having a spillway, the dam is equipped with other controlled outlet gates for water management. The last inspection in August 2020 revealed that the dam's condition was not rated, and emergency action plans were not prepared at the time. With a drainage area of 0.3 square miles and a structural height of 150 feet, this dam plays a crucial role in the management of mine tailings in the region. Enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate impact will find the Getchell Mine Tailings Dam an intriguing structure to study in the context of environmental sustainability and risk management.
Dam Length |
3820 |
Dam Height |
150 |
River Or Stream |
RABBIT CREEK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
210 |
Hydraulic Height |
147 |
Drainage Area |
0.3 |
Nid Storage |
10000 |
Structural Height |
150 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
150 |
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.
Getchell Mine Tailings Dam