Red Dog Tailings Back Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 1, 2026
The Red Dog Tailings Back Dam is a privately owned structure located in Kivalina, Alaska, designed to hold tailings from mining activities.
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Summary
Completed in 2010, this earthen dam stands at 66 feet high and spans 4950 feet, with a capacity of 24,757 acre-feet. Situated on Bons Creek, it is regulated by the Alaska Department of Natural Resources and undergoes regular inspections to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.
Despite its high hazard potential, the Red Dog Tailings Back Dam has been assessed as satisfactory in condition, with a risk level of 2 on a scale of 1 to 4. Emergency action plans are in place, and the dam is regularly monitored for any potential issues. While the dam lacks a spillway, its design and construction meet state permitting requirements, providing confidence in its ability to withstand hydrological challenges. For water resource and climate enthusiasts in the Northwest Arctic region of Alaska, the Red Dog Tailings Back Dam serves as a critical infrastructure for managing mining waste and protecting local waterways.
Year Completed |
2010 |
Dam Length |
4950 |
Dam Height |
66 |
River Or Stream |
BONS CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
678 |
Drainage Area |
3.31 |
Nid Storage |
24757 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
66 |
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 Back Dam