Intrepid Potash West Plant Dam
Key Takeaway
Intrepid Potash West Plant Dam is classified as significant hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1978 and is 48 years old. Its primary use is tailings. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 32 ft (taller than 50% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 4,500 ft |
| Dam Type | Earth |
| Max Storage | 2.1K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 1.8K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 128 acres |
| Drainage Area | 1 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1978 (48 years old) |
| NID ID | NM00436 |
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
INTREPID POTASH, INC.
Private
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Significant Hazard 12 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Intrepid Potash West Plant Dam?
Intrepid Potash West Plant 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 Intrepid Potash West Plant Dam?
Intrepid Potash West Plant Dam is owned by INTREPID POTASH, INC. (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Intrepid Potash West Plant Dam built?
Intrepid Potash West Plant Dam was completed in 1978, making it 48 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 Intrepid Potash West Plant Dam?
Intrepid Potash West Plant 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 Intrepid Potash West Plant Dam?
Intrepid Potash West Plant Dam has a dam height of 32 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 Intrepid Potash West Plant Dam last inspected?
Intrepid Potash West Plant Dam was last inspected on February 28, 2019. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.