Summary
With a height of 350 feet and a length of 4415 feet, this dam has a storage capacity of 136,000 acre-feet and serves as a critical structure for managing tailings and water resources in the area. Located on Fish Creek in Fairbanks North Star County, this dam is regulated by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources and is inspected regularly by the Mine Safety and Health Administration.
Despite being classified as having a "significant" hazard potential and a "high" risk assessment, the Fort Knox Tailings Dam is currently in fair condition as of the last assessment in January 2019. The dam has undergone modifications in 2011 to enhance its structural integrity, and emergency action plans are in place to mitigate any potential risks associated with its operation. With no spillway and a hydraulic height of 335 feet, this dam plays a crucial role in ensuring water supply and managing tailings in the region, highlighting the importance of effective monitoring and maintenance practices to safeguard both the environment and surrounding communities.
Years Modified |
2011 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1996 |
Dam Length |
4415 |
Dam Height |
350 |
River Or Stream |
FISH CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Rockfill |
Surface Area |
950 |
Hydraulic Height |
335 |
Drainage Area |
7.3 |
Nid Storage |
136000 |
Structural Height |
350 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
350 |
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.
Fort Knox Tailings Dam