Van Stone Tailings Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: January 12, 2026
The Van Stone Tailings Dam, located in Stevens County, Washington, was completed in 1970 with a primary purpose of storing tailings.
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Summary
This earth dam, with a structural height of 90 feet and a length of 2000 feet, has a maximum storage capacity of 150 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 20 acres. Despite its significant hazard potential, the dam is in poor condition, as assessed in September 2021, raising concerns among water resource and climate enthusiasts.
Managed by a private owner, the Van Stone Tailings Dam is regulated by the Washington Department of Ecology and undergoes inspections every five years. The dam's poor condition and significant hazard potential highlight the importance of regular maintenance and risk management measures to ensure the safety of surrounding communities and the environment. With a drainage area of 0.04 square miles and offstream location, the dam's impact on water resources and climate in the region is a topic of interest for enthusiasts in the field.
As climate change continues to pose challenges to water resource management, the condition of dams like Van Stone Tailings Dam becomes increasingly critical. With its outdated Emergency Action Plan last revised in 2008 and no updated risk assessment or management measures in place, there is a pressing need for improved monitoring and maintenance to address potential risks associated with this structure. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the state of dams like the Van Stone Tailings Dam is essential for promoting environmental sustainability and community safety in the face of changing climatic conditions.
Year Completed |
1970 |
Dam Length |
2000 |
River Or Stream |
Offstream |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
20 |
Hydraulic Height |
90 |
Drainage Area |
0.04 |
Nid Storage |
150 |
Structural Height |
90 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Unlisted/Unknown |
Nid Height |
90 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Columbia River At International Boundary
|
121000cfs |
Colville River At Kettle Falls
|
196cfs |
Pend Oreille River Below Box Canyon Near Ione
|
28300cfs |
Kettle River Near Laurier
|
1080cfs |
Outlet Creek Near Metaline Falls
|
19cfs |
Priest R Outflow Nr Coolin
|
1510cfs |
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.
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