Sweetwater Tailings Dam
Key Takeaway
Sweetwater Tailings Dam is classified as high hazard in Missouri. 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 | 130 ft (taller than 99.7% in MO) |
| Dam Length | 1,400 ft |
| Dam Type | Other |
| Max Storage | 23.5K acre-ft |
| Normal Storage | 10.5K acre-ft |
| Surface Area | 990 acres |
| Drainage Area | 6 sq mi |
| Max Discharge | 9,806 cfs |
| Year Completed | 1980 (46 years old) |
| NID ID | MO30166 |
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
THE DOE RUN COMPANY
Private
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High Hazard 26 ftFrequently Asked Questions
What is the hazard classification of Sweetwater Tailings Dam?
Sweetwater 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 Sweetwater Tailings Dam?
Sweetwater Tailings Dam is owned by THE DOE RUN COMPANY (Private). The owner is responsible for maintenance, inspections, and compliance with dam safety regulations.
When was Sweetwater Tailings Dam built?
Sweetwater 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 Sweetwater Tailings Dam?
Sweetwater 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 Sweetwater Tailings Dam?
Sweetwater Tailings Dam has a dam height of 130 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 Sweetwater Tailings Dam last inspected?
Sweetwater Tailings Dam was last inspected on July 25, 2022. Inspection dates indicate when a formal review occurred, not the results of that inspection.