Hecla-Day Mine Aspen Tailings Saddle Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

The Hecla-Day Mine Aspen Tailings Saddle Dam in Republic, Washington, is a privately-owned structure regulated by the Washington Dept of Ecology.


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Summary

Completed in 1987, this earth dam, standing at a hydraulic height of 40 feet, serves the primary purpose of managing tailings from the mining operation. With a storage capacity of 625 acre-feet and a surface area of 38 acres, the dam plays a crucial role in protecting the surrounding environment and communities from potential hazards.

While the dam's hazard potential is considered significant, its condition assessment as of July 2019 was satisfactory. Regular inspections are conducted every five years to ensure its structural integrity and safety standards are met. The dam's emergency action plan (EAP) was last revised in October 2018, indicating a proactive approach towards preparedness and risk management. With a maximum discharge capacity of 166 cubic feet per second, the dam's efficient operation is crucial for maintaining downstream water quality and ecosystem health in the Granite Creek watershed.

Located in Congressional District 05 of Washington, the Hecla-Day Mine Aspen Tailings Saddle Dam stands as a testament to responsible mining practices and environmental stewardship. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is imperative to monitor and support the ongoing maintenance and regulatory oversight of such critical infrastructure to ensure the sustainable management of our precious water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1987

River Or Stream

Tr-Granite Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

38

Hydraulic Height

40

Drainage Area

0.36

Nid Storage

625

Structural Height

40

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Unlisted/Unknown

Nid Height

40
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.