Grubstake Tailings Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Caballo Percha Arroyo Diversion
Last Updated: December 29, 2025
Grubstake Tailings Dam, also known as Burbank Canyon Mine and Mill, is a privately owned structure located in Sierra, New Mexico.
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Summary
This earth-type dam, completed in 1992, reaches a height of 70 feet and spans a length of 630 feet. Situated along the Rio Grande Tributary, the dam serves primarily for tailings storage purposes, with a storage capacity of 30 acre-feet.
Despite its low hazard potential, Grubstake Tailings Dam has been assessed to be in poor condition as of its last inspection in 2016. The dam is regulated by the Office of the State Engineer and undergoes regular state inspections, permitting, and enforcement. With a high risk assessment rating, there is a need for improved risk management measures to address potential safety concerns associated with the dam.
Overall, Grubstake Tailings Dam presents an interesting case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts due to its unique design, location, and the challenges it faces in terms of maintenance and risk mitigation. As a crucial component of the local water infrastructure, the dam's condition and regulatory oversight are important factors to consider in ensuring the safety and sustainability of water resources in the region.
Year Completed |
1992 |
Dam Length |
630 |
Dam Height |
70 |
River Or Stream |
RIO GRANDE - TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
70 |
Nid Storage |
30 |
Structural Height |
70 |
Outlet Gates |
Needle - 0 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
70 |
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.
Grubstake Tailings Dam
Caballo Reservoir