Simplot Tailings Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

The Simplot Tailings Dam in Nevada, completed in 1981, stands at a height of 141 feet and serves as a containment structure for tailings.


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Summary

Located in Clark County, near the Colorado River, this earth dam with a stone core has a storage capacity of 4400 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 178 acres. Despite being state-regulated and regularly inspected, the dam is categorized as having low hazard potential but is assessed to be in fair condition.

With a hydraulic height of 136 feet and a length of 2525 feet, the Simplot Tailings Dam is designed to withstand potential risks, as it is equipped with one controlled outlet gate. The dam's risk assessment indicates a high risk level (2) but lacks detailed risk management measures. While the dam does not have a spillway, its location near the Colorado River underscores the importance of sustainable water resource management, especially in the face of changing climate patterns. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, monitoring the condition and management of the Simplot Tailings Dam is crucial in ensuring the safety of the surrounding environment and communities.

Year Completed

1981

Dam Length

2525

Dam Height

141

River Or Stream

COLORADO RIVER-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

178

Hydraulic Height

136

Drainage Area

10

Nid Storage

4400

Structural Height

141

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

141
       
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.