Simplot Phosphates Tailings Dam

TRIB TO BIG BRUSHY CREEK· Uintah, Utah· Built 1973· Earth·
Significant Hazard Private

Key Takeaway

Simplot Phosphates Tailings Dam is classified as significant hazard in Utah. It was completed in 1973 and is 53 years old. Significant hazard means failure could cause economic or environmental damage. Learn more.

Physical Details

Dam Length540 ft
Dam TypeEarth
Max Storage3.4K acre-ft
Normal Storage2.1K acre-ft
Drainage Area2 sq mi
Year Completed1973 (53 years old)
NID IDUT00410

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: July 20, 2022
State Regulated: Yes
Regulatory Agency: Utah Division of Water Rights

Ownership

SIMPLOT PHOSPHATES LLC

Private

Nearby Dams

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the hazard classification of Simplot Phosphates Tailings Dam?

Simplot Phosphates 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 Simplot Phosphates Tailings Dam?

Simplot Phosphates Tailings Dam is owned by SIMPLOT PHOSPHATES LLC (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.

When was Simplot Phosphates Tailings Dam built?

Simplot Phosphates Tailings Dam was completed in 1973, making it 53 years old. Many U.S. dams were built between the 1930s and 1970s during a period of major infrastructure investment.

When was Simplot Phosphates Tailings Dam last inspected?

Simplot Phosphates Tailings Dam was last inspected on July 20, 2022. 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.