Elmwood Tailings, located in Carthage, Tennessee, is a private-owned dam used for tailings storage.
Wind
Humidity
Built in 1974, this dam stands at a structural height of 107 feet and has a hydraulic height of 92.5 feet. With a storage capacity of 4,337 acre-feet, Elmwood Tailings sits on the Tributary Fork River and covers a surface area of 71 acres.
Managed by the Tennessee Safe Dams Program, Elmwood Tailings is classified as a significant hazard with a satisfactory condition assessment. Inspected regularly, the dam has an inspection frequency of every two years, with the last inspection conducted in December 2020. Despite its moderate risk rating, Elmwood Tailings does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, raising questions about its preparedness for potential emergencies.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in Elmwood Tailings can appreciate its unique design as an "Other" dam type with a buttress core. With its location in Smith County, Tennessee, and its association with the Mine Safety and Health Administration for regulatory oversight, Elmwood Tailings presents an intriguing case study for those concerned with the intersection of mining activities, dam safety, and environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
3600 |
River Or Stream |
TRIBCANEY FORK |
Primary Dam Type |
Other |
Surface Area |
71 |
Hydraulic Height |
92.5 |
Drainage Area |
0.79 |
Nid Storage |
4337 |
Structural Height |
107 |
Outlet Gates |
None |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
107 |