Rmg West Tailings Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Located in Nye, Nevada, the Rmg West Tailings Dam stands as a testament to modern engineering and environmental stewardship.


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Summary

Built in 1997, this rockfill dam serves the primary purpose of containing tailings from mining operations, with a structural height of 94 feet and a hydraulic height of 88 feet. The dam spans an impressive length of 13,249 feet and has a storage capacity of 28,816 acre-feet, making it a key component in managing water resources in the region.

With a significant hazard potential and fair condition assessment, the Rmg West Tailings Dam is subject to regular inspections by the Nevada Department of Water Resources. The dam has undergone modifications in 2000 to enhance its hydraulic and structural integrity, ensuring its continued ability to protect the surrounding area from potential risks. Despite its high risk classification, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures are up to date, reflecting a proactive approach to maintaining the dam's safety and reliability.

As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, the Rmg West Tailings Dam serves as a critical asset in mitigating the potential effects of extreme weather events and rising temperatures. With proper maintenance and adherence to regulatory guidelines, this dam plays a vital role in safeguarding the environment and local communities against the challenges posed by a changing climate.

Years Modified

2000 - Hydraulic, 2000 - Structural

Year Completed

1997

Dam Length

13249

Dam Height

90

River Or Stream

UNNAMED WASH-OS

Primary Dam Type

Rockfill

Surface Area

226

Hydraulic Height

88

Drainage Area

0.5

Nid Storage

28816

Structural Height

94

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

94
       
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.