Magnetite Tailings Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 19, 2025

Located in Fierro, New Mexico, the Magnetite Tailings Dam, also known as the Continental Mines Tailings Dam No.


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Summary

2, stands as a private structure regulated by the Office of the State Engineer. Built in 1980, this dam primarily serves the purpose of containing tailings, with a height of 140 feet and a length of 1000 feet, providing a storage capacity of 52 acre-feet. Despite its satisfactory condition assessment as of July 2020, the dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, calling for regular inspections every five years to ensure its integrity.

Situated in the Hanover Creek area within Grant County, this dam plays a crucial role in managing mine waste and preventing potential environmental hazards. The structure is under the jurisdiction of the state of New Mexico and is inspected by the Mine Safety and Health Administration. With a high-risk classification and no spillway in place, the Magnetite Tailings Dam requires careful monitoring and adherence to emergency action plans to mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts track the state and federal regulations governing the Magnetite Tailings Dam, they recognize the importance of maintaining its structural integrity to safeguard surrounding communities and ecosystems. With a high risk rating and a history dating back to the 1980s, this dam serves as a reminder of the critical role proper oversight and maintenance play in ensuring the safety of water resources and the environment in the face of changing climate conditions.

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

140

River Or Stream

HANOVER CREEK - TR

Primary Dam Type

Other

Surface Area

4

Drainage Area

0.05

Nid Storage

52

Outlet Gates

Needle - 0

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

140
       
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.