Magnetite Tailings Dam
Key Takeaway
Magnetite Tailings Dam is classified as high hazard in New Mexico. It was completed in 1980 and is 46 years old. Its primary use is tailings. High hazard means loss of life is likely if the dam fails — it does not indicate the dam's current condition. Learn more.
Physical Details
| Dam Height | 140 ft (taller than 93.9% in NM) |
| Dam Length | 1,000 ft |
| Dam Type | Other |
| Max Storage | 52 acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 0 acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 4 acres |
| Drainage Area | 0 sq mi |
| Year Completed | 1980 (46 years old) |
| Year Modified | 2013 |
| NID ID | NM00418 |
Safety Information
Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails.
Hazard potential describes downstream consequences of failure, not the dam's current condition. What does this mean?
Ownership
FREEPORT MCMORAN CORPORATION
Private
Nearby Dams
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Magnetite Tailings Dam?
Magnetite Tailings Dam is classified as High Hazard. Loss of human life is likely if the dam fails. This classification refers to the potential downstream consequences of a failure, not the dam's current structural condition.
Who owns and operates Magnetite Tailings Dam?
Magnetite Tailings Dam is owned by FREEPORT MCMORAN CORPORATION (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Magnetite Tailings Dam built?
Magnetite 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 Magnetite Tailings Dam?
Magnetite 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 Magnetite Tailings Dam?
Magnetite Tailings Dam has a dam height of 140 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 Magnetite Tailings Dam last inspected?
Magnetite Tailings Dam was last inspected on July 1, 2020. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.