Tonkin Springs Tailings Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Tonkin Springs Tailings Dam, located in Eureka, Nevada, is a private earth dam primarily used for tailings storage.
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Summary
Built in 1989 by Welsh Engineering Inc., this dam stands at a height of 65 feet and has a hydraulic height of 62 feet, with a length of 4172 feet. With a storage capacity of 2625 acre-feet, it serves the purpose of storing tailings material from mining operations in the area. The dam is regulated by the Nevada Division of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity.
Despite its low hazard potential and satisfactory condition assessment, Tonkin Springs Tailings Dam is still considered to have a high risk assessment due to its location and potential impact on the surrounding environment. With a drainage area of 0.2 square miles and a maximum discharge of 2 cubic feet per second, the dam poses a potential risk in the event of a breach or failure. Emergency action plans are in place, but there is room for improvement in terms of risk management measures and ensuring compliance with guidelines for emergency preparedness.
Overall, Tonkin Springs Tailings Dam serves a crucial role in the mining industry in Nevada, but its risk assessment highlights the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to prevent any potential disasters. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is vital to stay informed about the safety and regulatory measures in place for dams like Tonkin Springs to protect both the environment and local communities from any potential harm.
Year Completed |
1989 |
Dam Length |
4172 |
Dam Height |
65 |
River Or Stream |
DENAY CREEK-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
75 |
Hydraulic Height |
62 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
2625 |
Structural Height |
65 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
65 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Tonkin Springs Tailings Dam