Mill #3 Tailings Pond Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Mill #3 Tailings Pond, also known as J-457 or Rain Talis, is a private-owned earth dam located in Elko, Nevada.
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Summary
With a height of 107 feet and a length of 2300 feet, this tailings pond has a storage capacity of 3200 acre-feet. Managed by the Nevada Division of Water Resources, the dam is primarily used for tailings disposal and is constructed with a stone core and rock and soil foundations.
Despite being categorized as having low hazard potential, the condition assessment of Mill #3 Tailings Pond is currently unavailable. The dam has one controlled outlet gate and falls under the jurisdiction of the Mine Safety and Health Administration for regulatory oversight and inspections. While it is not marked as a USACE structure, the dam's emergency action plan status, risk assessment, and management measures are not specified, indicating a need for further evaluation and monitoring to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Mill #3 Tailings Pond presents an intriguing case study in dam management and environmental stewardship. With its unique design and purpose, this earth dam serves as a crucial component of the mining operations in the region. Understanding the dam's structural integrity, risk assessment, and emergency preparedness are vital for safeguarding water resources and mitigating potential environmental impacts in the event of a breach or failure. Continued monitoring and collaboration between regulatory agencies and private owners are essential to ensure the safety and sustainability of Mill #3 Tailings Pond in the face of changing climate conditions and water resource management challenges.
Dam Length |
2300 |
Dam Height |
107 |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Nid Storage |
3200 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
107 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Humboldt R Nr Carlin
|
38cfs |
Maggie Ck At Carlin
|
11cfs |
Susie Creek At Carlin
|
1cfs |
Humboldt R At Palisade
|
56cfs |
Marys Creek At Carlin
|
5cfs |
S F Humboldt R Ab Dixie C Nr Elko
|
15cfs |
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.
Mill #3 Tailings Pond