Unimin Tailings Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
The Unimin Tailings Dam in Virginia is a private structure located on Back Creek, with a height of 96 feet and a length of 1600 feet.
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Summary
This earth dam serves the primary purpose of storing tailings, with a storage capacity of 1700 acre-feet. Despite not being regulated by the state, this dam has a high hazard potential, emphasizing the importance of proper maintenance and monitoring to ensure the safety of the surrounding area.
While the condition of the Unimin Tailings Dam is currently not rated, its high hazard potential highlights the need for regular inspections and emergency action planning. With no state jurisdiction or permitting requirements, the responsibility for the safety and maintenance of this dam falls solely on the private owner. Climate enthusiasts and water resource advocates should keep a close eye on developments regarding this dam to ensure that proper risk management measures are in place to prevent any potential disasters.
Given the lack of state oversight and the high hazard potential of the Unimin Tailings Dam, there is a pressing need for proactive risk assessment and management strategies. The dam's location in Frederick, Virginia, underscores the importance of staying informed about its condition and any potential modifications or improvements. As climate change continues to impact water resources and infrastructure, it is crucial for stakeholders to prioritize the safety and sustainability of dams like Unimin to mitigate any potential risks to the surrounding environment and communities.
Dam Length |
1600 |
Dam Height |
96 |
River Or Stream |
Back Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
96 |
Drainage Area |
2.2 |
Nid Storage |
1700 |
Structural Height |
96 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Nid Height |
96 |
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.
Unimin Tailings Dam
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