Copper Flats Tailings Dam
Key Takeaway
Copper Flats Tailings Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1980 and is 46 years old. Its primary use is tailings. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 54 ft (taller than 74.2% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 6,628 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 4.0K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 150 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1980 (46 years old) |
| NID ID | NM00564 |
Safety Information
No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
NEW MEXICO COPPER CORPORATION
Private
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Copper Flats Tailings Dam?
Copper Flats Tailings Dam is classified as Significant Hazard. No probable loss of human life, but can cause economic loss, environmental damage, or disruption of lifeline facilities. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Copper Flats Tailings Dam?
Copper Flats Tailings Dam is owned by NEW MEXICO COPPER CORPORATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Copper Flats Tailings Dam built?
Copper Flats Tailings Dam was completed in 1980, making it 46 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.
What is the primary purpose of Copper Flats Tailings Dam?
Copper Flats Tailings Dam serves the following purposes: Tailings. Many dams in the U.S. are multi-purpose, supporting flood control, water supply, recreation, and other uses.
How tall is Copper Flats Tailings Dam?
Copper Flats Tailings Dam has a dam height of 54 ft. Dam height is measured from the natural streambed at the downstream toe to the top of the dam, and may differ from the visible height.
When was Copper Flats Tailings Dam last inspected?
Copper Flats Tailings Dam was last inspected on April 26, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.