The Hecla-Day Mine Aspen Tailings Saddle Dam in Republic, Washington, is a privately-owned structure regulated by the Washington Dept of Ecology.
Wind
Humidity
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 |
Kettle River Near Ferry
|
353cfs |
Okanogan River Near Tonasket
|
9730cfs |
Colville River At Kettle Falls
|
182cfs |
Kettle River Near Laurier
|
806cfs |
Okanogan River At Oroville
|
352cfs |
Omak Creek Near Omak
|
7cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Curlew Lake State Park
|
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Ferry Lake
|
||
Ferry Lake Campground
|
||
Ten Mile
|
||
Ten Mile Campground
|
||
Lambert Horse Camp
|