North Tailings

Tooele, Utah· Earth· 60 ft tall
High Hazard Tailings Private

Key Takeaway

North Tailings is classified as high hazard in Utah. 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 60 ft (taller than 61.8% in UT)
Dam Length45,000 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage537.0K acre-ft
NID IDUT21462

Safety Information

High Hazard

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?

Emergency Action Plan: Yes
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Utah Division of Water Rights

Ownership

Kennecott Utah Copper

Private

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of North Tailings?

North Tailings 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 North Tailings?

North Tailings is owned by Kennecott Utah Copper (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

What is the primary purpose of North Tailings?

North Tailings 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 North Tailings?

North Tailings has a dam height of 60 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.

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.