Jerritt Canyon Tailings Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Located in Ryndon, Nevada, the Jerritt Canyon Tailings Dam stands as a significant structure along the North Fork Humboldt River-OS.
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Summary
Constructed in 1981 by KNIGHT PIESOLD LLC, this private-owned earth dam serves the primary purpose of managing tailings. With a height of 147 feet and a structural height of 162 feet, the dam spans 14,000 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 24,000 acre-feet.
Despite its impressive size, the Jerritt Canyon Tailings Dam poses a significant hazard potential, with a condition assessment rating of unsatisfactory. The dam has undergone structural modifications in 1999, but its risk assessment remains high. With an inspection frequency of 3 years, the dam is regulated by the Nevada Division of Water Resources and has a history of state permitting, inspection, and enforcement.
Ensuring the safety and integrity of the Jerritt Canyon Tailings Dam is crucial for protecting the surrounding Elko County, Nevada community. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the management and maintenance of such structures become increasingly vital in safeguarding against potential hazards and mitigating risks associated with extreme weather events.
Years Modified |
1999 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1981 |
Dam Length |
14000 |
Dam Height |
147 |
River Or Stream |
NORTH FORK HUMBOLDT RIVER-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
300 |
Hydraulic Height |
144 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
24000 |
Structural Height |
162 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
162 |
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.
Jerritt Canyon Tailings Dam