Tailings Pond No. 4 Dam 2b Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Tailings Pond No.


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Summary

4 Dam 2b, located in Green River, Wyoming, is a privately owned structure designed by Phillip B. Solseng for tailings management. Completed in 1992, this earth dam stands at a height of 27 feet, with a hydraulic height of 22 feet and a structural height of 39 feet. It has a length of 950 feet and a storage capacity of 4612 acre-feet, serving the primary purpose of storing tailings from mining operations.

This significant dam on Stevens Draw has a spillway width of 50 feet for uncontrolled discharge and a drainage area of 4.1 square miles. Although it is state-regulated and inspected, with a moderate risk assessment rating, there is no information provided on the dam's condition assessment or emergency action plan. The dam's hazard potential is deemed significant, highlighting the importance of regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure its continued safety and functionality for both the environment and surrounding communities.

Tailings Pond No. 4 Dam 2b is a vital part of the mining infrastructure in Sweetwater County, Wyoming, serving as a containment structure for tailings while posing a moderate risk in terms of potential hazards. With its stone core and soil foundation, this dam plays a crucial role in managing mining waste and protecting water resources in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, staying informed about the condition and management of structures like Tailings Pond No. 4 Dam 2b is essential for fostering sustainable practices and mitigating risks associated with mining activities.

Year Completed

1992

Dam Length

950

Dam Height

27

River Or Stream

STEVENS DRAW

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

239

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

4.1

Nid Storage

4612

Structural Height

39

Outlet Gates

None

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

39
       
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.