Red Dog Tailings Main Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 1, 2026
The Red Dog Tailings Main Dam, located in Kivalina, Alaska, is a crucial structure for managing tailings from mining operations in the area.
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Summary
Constructed in 1993, this rockfill dam stands at a height of 208 feet and has a storage capacity of 40,030 acre-feet. With a surface area of 629 acres and serving the purpose of tailings containment, this dam plays a significant role in environmental protection and resource management in the region.
Managed by a private entity, the Red Dog Tailings Main Dam is regulated by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam has a high hazard potential and a satisfactory condition assessment, with the last inspection conducted in August 2020. Despite its high risk profile, the dam has been deemed to meet guidelines for emergency action plans and risk management measures, highlighting the commitment to safety and preparedness in the face of potential hazards.
The Red Dog Tailings Main Dam poses a critical link in the chain of water resource management in the Northwest Arctic region of Alaska, playing a key role in safeguarding the environment and surrounding communities from the impacts of mining activities. With its notable height and storage capacity, this rockfill dam stands as a testament to the importance of responsible infrastructure development and maintenance in the face of evolving climate and environmental challenges.
Years Modified |
2016 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1993 |
Dam Length |
5700 |
Dam Height |
208 |
River Or Stream |
S.F. RED DOG CR |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
629 |
Hydraulic Height |
203 |
Drainage Area |
2.6 |
Nid Storage |
40030 |
Structural Height |
208 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
208 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
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.
Red Dog Tailings Main Dam