Nixon Fork Tailings Dam

RUBY CREEK-TR· Yukon-Koyukuk Census Area, Alaska· Built 1995· Earth· 64 ft tall
Significant Hazard Tailings Private

Key Takeaway

Nixon Fork Tailings Dam is classified as significant hazard in Alaska. It was completed in 1995 and is 31 years old. Its primary use is tailings. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Height 64 ft (taller than 81.2% in AK)
Dam Length510 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage77 acre-ft
Normal Storage62 acre-ft
Surface Area6 acres
Drainage Area0 sq mi
Year Completed1995 (31 years old)
NID IDAK00213

Safety Information

Significant Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
Last Inspection: October 15, 2018
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: AKDNR

Ownership

MYSTERY CREEK RESOURCES

Private

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Nixon Fork Tailings Dam?

Nixon Fork 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 Nixon Fork Tailings Dam?

Nixon Fork Tailings Dam is owned by MYSTERY CREEK RESOURCES (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Nixon Fork Tailings Dam built?

Nixon Fork Tailings Dam was completed in 1995, making it 31 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 Nixon Fork Tailings Dam?

Nixon Fork 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 Nixon Fork Tailings Dam?

Nixon Fork Tailings Dam has a dam height of 64 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 Nixon Fork Tailings Dam last inspected?

Nixon Fork Tailings Dam was last inspected on October 15, 2018. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.

Data from the National Inventory of Dams (NID) maintained by the US Army Corps of Engineers. Dam conditions may have changed since the last update. This site is not affiliated with USACE. Do not use for emergency planning — contact your local dam safety program.