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Safer Monitoring. Stronger Dams.
Tailings Pond Monitoring & Dam Safety Drones
Tailings pond monitoring and dam safety remain among the most high-risk, resource-intensive responsibilities in mining operations. Drones give engineers, safety officers, and compliance teams a safer, faster way to inspect tailings facilities, monitor structural integrity, and track water levels without sending personnel into unstable or hazardous zones. Aerial data collection reduces the need for manual surveys around steep embankments or saturated ground while producing accurate, repeatable datasets for both daily operations and long-term reporting.
Safer Inspections. Smarter Decisions.
Why Use Drones for Tailings Pond Monitoring & Dam Safety?
Tailings storage facilities (TSFs) and retention dams require constant oversight, but traditional inspections are slow, costly, and expose crews to unstable slopes and saturated ground. Drone workflows replace these manual tasks with safe, repeatable flights that capture high-resolution imagery, 3D models, and multispectral data for seepage or vegetation stress. This delivers defensible, time-stamped records that improve daily risk management, reduce inspection costs, and help operators align with evolving standards like the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM).
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Improved Safety
Collect critical data from above without sending crews onto unstable slopes or near pond edges. Reduce fall, drowning, and equipment-related risks. -
Faster Turnaround
Automated drone flights complete inspections in hours, supporting daily or weekly monitoring without disrupting operations. -
High-Resolution Data
Photogrammetry, LiDAR, and multispectral sensors capture precise datasets to assess dam integrity, water levels, and seepage. -
Compliance Ready
Drone-derived data supports GISTM requirements and defensible reporting for environmental and regulatory audits. -
Lower Inspection Costs
Reduce labor hours, minimize equipment downtime, and avoid the expense of manned surveys or third-party inspections. -
Actionable Outputs
Generate orthomosaics, elevation models, and time-stamped records that integrate with GIS, hydrological modeling, and compliance platforms.
Blasting Data You Can Trust
Tailings Pond Monitoring & Dam Safety Drones Use Cases
Early Seepage & Structural Anomaly Detection
Drones with thermal or multispectral sensors identify vegetation stress and cool zones that reveal seepage or internal piping before failures occur.
- Alert to Failure: Detect hidden seepage and anomalies early to take preventive action before visible damage develops.
- Enhanced Insight: Orthomosaics and thermal mosaics feed into risk models for better-informed decision-making.
Time-Lapse Change Detection on Embankments
Routine drone flights create pixel-perfect records of slope, embankment movement, and cracks over time for predictive monitoring.
- Trend Tracking: Replay successive surveys to monitor subtle terrain shifts that may precede failure.
- Condition Baselines: Establish visual baselines that reduce false alarms and strengthen predictive accuracy.
Freeboard & Pond Area Monitoring
Photogrammetric surveys measure pond surface, freeboard, and beach slope with high accuracy to ensure safe operating limits.
- Stay Within Limits: Verify tailings deposition and freeboard remain within design tolerances.
- Avoid Surprises: Quantify water encroachment or pond growth before it becomes a hazard.
Rapid Inspection After Weather or Seismic Events
Autonomous drones provide fast flyovers after heavy rainfall, seismic activity, or prism alerts to assess potential structural damage.
- Critical Early Warning: Capture live video and updated orthomosaics for immediate risk evaluation.
- Minimize Risk Exposure: Keep crews off-site while still gaining real-time situational awareness.
Volume & Deposition Mapping for Stability Planning
Drone-derived 3D models quantify tailings volumes and deposition changes, supporting proactive stability management.
- Raise Planning: Determine optimal timing for dam raises and track deposition against design benchmarks.
- Resource Efficiency: Replace manual surveys with frequent volumetric updates at lower cost and higher accuracy.
Off-Site Inspections & Remote Collaboration
Drone-in-a-box systems enable remote teams to launch inspections and share compliance-ready data without travel.
- Audit Ready: Produce on-demand flights and deliverables for boards, insurers, and regulatory audits.
- Centralized Oversight: Share live or recorded datasets with geotechnical experts for validation and transparency.
Our Top Recommendations
Tailings Pond Monitoring & Dam Safety Drones
We have a wide variety of enterprise drone solutions to help you and your team accomplish your jobs quicker and easier. View the drone packages below or give us a call and get a specialized quote for your needs.
DJI Matrice 400
Engineered for Excellence, Designed for Versatility
Matrice 400 is DJI’s enterprise flagship built for long endurance and complex missions. It delivers up to 59 minutes of forward flight, lifts 6 kg of payload, and adds rotating LiDAR with mmWave radar for power-line-level obstacle sensing. With O4 Enterprise transmission, airborne relay, and advanced automation, it excels in emergency response, power inspections, mapping, and AEC.
- Up to 59 min forward flight time and 53 min hover for continuous operations
- 6 kg max payload; single or dual lower gimbals plus third connector and four E-Port V2 mounts
- Power-line-level obstacle sensing via rotating LiDAR, mmWave radar, and low-light fisheye vision
- O4 Enterprise video link up to 40 km, sub-2 GHz support, and airborne relay for extended range
- IP55 weather rating, −20 to 50 °C operating range, real-time terrain follow, and ship takeoff/landing
WingtraRAY
The survey drone built for faster results and total confidence in the field
WingtraRAY is the next-generation VTOL mapping platform that delivers survey-grade results on the first flight. A modular airframe, certified safety options, and an end-to-end WingtraCLOUD workflow let you quote more work, finish faster, and keep crews safe—whether threading urban corridors or mapping thousand-acre sites.
- Cat 3 OOP (U.S.) / C6 (EU) parachute option unlocks surveys across most areas without waivers
- Obstacle avoidance + adaptive geofence; only a 2×2 m (6.6×6.6 ft) pad for VTOL ops
- Dual hot-swap batteries and radio + LTE telemetry support confident BVLOS workflows
- Adaptive cruise 36–49 mph; map 250 ac in a ~10-min flight and deliver data in < 2 hours
- Survey-grade payloads (up to 61 MP RGB, LiDAR, RedEdge-P) with 3 cm RMS PPK accuracy
IF800 TOMCAT
Portable. Dependable. Deployable.
The IF800 TOMCAT by Inspired Flight features a lightweight, compact, and foldable frame, making it easily transportable and deployable in diverse environments. Its specially designed case provides ample space for batteries and payload, ensuring convenience and protection during transit. Professionals in need of cutting-edge aerial capabilities, such as infrastructure inspections, terrain mapping, or lidar surveys, can rely on the IF800 TOMCAT as a dependable and versatile tool.
- 54 min. Flight Time with 1.5kg Payload
- Dual Hot Swappable Batteries
- 6.6 lbs Max Payload
- FPV Camera
Freefly Astro
Compact Industrial Platform
Freefly’s latest commercial drone platform with RTK, 61 megapixel Sony camera, LTE cloud connectivity, mission computer and more. Astro is backed by the team at Freefly with 100,000+ successful commercial drone flights.
- 25 min Flight Time w/Payload
- IP43 Rating
- 100,000+ Commercial Flights
- Made in the USA
DJI Matrice 4 Enterprise
The Age of Intelligent Flight.
Unleash precision and intelligence with the DJI Matrice 4 Enterprise, featuring advanced AI, dual-camera capabilities, and enhanced safety for superior performance in mapping, surveying, and more.
- Advanced AI for Real-Time Detection
- 112x Hybrid Zoom with Dual Cameras
- 49-Minute Flight Time & 15-Second Takeoff
- 5-Directional Oblique Capture Boosts Efficiency by 40%
- Smart 3D Capture for Accurate Modeling
- Rapid 0.5-Second Interval Shooting for High-Speed Surveys
SOTEN
Small Aerial Photography Drone
Discover the ACSL SOTEN: A compact, NDAA-compliant Japanese drone, offering advanced security and versatile imaging with a one-touch swappable camera system. Lightweight, foldable, and featuring an IP43 rating, it's ideal for demanding missions. With a 25-minute flight time and intuitive operation, the SOTEN is perfect for secure, efficient aerial tasks in challenging environments.
- NDAA-Compliant
- 25 Min Max Flight Time
- One-Touch Swappable Payloads
- IP43 Rating
- SO15408 Secuirty Standards
DJI Zenmuse L2
Powerful Range, Elevated Precision
The Zenmuse L2 is a high-precision aerial LiDAR system that integrates frame LiDAR, a self-developed high-accuracy IMU, and a 4/3 CMOS RGB mapping camera. Designed for DJI flight platforms, it delivers precise, efficient, and reliable geospatial data acquisition, offering a turnkey solution for 3D data collection and high-accuracy post-processing with DJI Terra.
- Vertical Accuracy: 4 cm; Horizontal Accuracy: 5 cm without GCPs
- Exceptional Efficiency: Cover up to 2.5 km² in a single flight
- Superior Penetration: Smaller laser spots and denser point clouds for detailed mapping
- Extended Detection Range: Up to 450m at 50% reflectivity
- Turnkey Solution: One-click processing on DJI Terra for streamlined workflows
DJI Zenmuse P1
Efficiency through Flexible Full-frame Photogrammetry
The Zenmuse P1 sets a new benchmark for aerial surveying with its full-frame sensor and interchangeable fixed-focus lenses, delivering unparalleled efficiency and accuracy for photogrammetry missions.
- 45 MP Full-frame Sensor with 4.4μm Pixel Size for high-resolution imaging
- 3-axis Stabilized Gimbal with Smart Oblique Capture for versatile 2D and 3D modeling
- Global Mechanical Shutter and TimeSync 2.0 for centimeter-level accuracy without GCPs
- High Efficiency: Cover up to 3 km² in a single flight with photo capture every 0.7 seconds
- Smart Data Management for streamlined mission data handling and post-processing
GeoCue TrueView 1
Your Gateway to Precision and Affordability in LiDAR Technology
The GeoCue TrueView 1 delivers survey-grade point clouds and RGB imagery in a flexible subscription model. It combines a Hesai XT-32 dual-return scanner, configurable global-shutter camera options, and LP360 Drone software—giving teams an end-to-end LiDAR solution that’s lightweight, cost-effective, and ready for immediate deployment.
- Dual-return Hesai XT-32 laser for accurate and dense vegetation penetration
- Selectable 26 MP, 45 MP, or 61 MP cameras for tailored image resolution
- Includes LP360 Drone for QA/QC, editing, and deliverable creation
- Lightweight (1.5 kg) design supports wide UAV compatibility
- Annual subscription model includes hardware, software, and U.S.-based support
GeoCue TrueView 1 Lite
Most Accessible, Professional Grade LiDAR Sensor
The GeoCue TrueView 1 Lite offers a streamlined LiDAR solution for professionals who need dependable results without complex configuration or high startup costs. It combines a Hesai XT-32 dual-return laser, FLIR 5 MP camera, and integrated POS—delivering survey-grade outputs in a lightweight, compact payload with U.S.-based support and an annual processing plan.
- Dual-return Hesai XT-32 laser scanner for dense point cloud generation
- FLIR 5 MP global-shutter camera with 80° FOV for effective colorization
- Compact, lightweight form factor (~1.4 kg) for broad UAV integration
- Includes TV1 Lite Annual Processing plan for outputs up to 10 km²
- Assembled and supported in the USA with dedicated year-one assistance
Phoenix Recon-XT
Great Value Meets Great Performance
The Recon-XT is Phoenix LiDAR's ultimate value-driven LiDAR system, designed for the DJI Matrice 350 and Freefly Astro UAVs. Weighing just 1.8kg, it offers exceptional precision and long-range capabilities, making it ideal for surveying teams seeking affordability without compromising performance.
- High Precision: Achieves 2-5 cm RMS vertical accuracy at 80m with 5mm ranging precision
- Lightweight & Versatile: Weighs only 1.8kg, compatible with DJI M300/M350 and Freefly Astro UAVs
- Long-Range Performance: Operates reliably up to 80m AGL with a maximum detection range of 80m
- Accurate and Fast: Generates full undecimated georeferenced point clouds in real-time with rapid post-processing
- Flexible Mounting Options: Easily integrates with UAVs, vehicles, and mobile mapping applications
Phoenix Ranger-UAV22 Flex
Fly It, Drive It, Mount It Anywhere
The Ranger-UAV22 Flex is Phoenix LiDAR's most adaptable mapping system, seamlessly integrating into backpacks, UAVs, vehicles, and dual-head mobile scanning solutions. With a high pulse repetition rate and exceptional precision, the Ranger-UAV22 Flex is designed to meet the diverse needs of modern surveying and mapping projects.
- Ultimate Versatility: Integrates effortlessly with backpacks, UAVs, vehicles, and dual-head mobile scanning setups
- High Precision: Achieves 1.5-3.0 cm RMSEz system accuracy at 120m with 5mm ranging precision
- Long-Range Capability: Reliable operation up to 490m AGL at 20% reflectivity
- Advanced Performance: 1200 kHz pulse repetition rate and up to 15 returns per pulse for detailed and accurate point clouds
- Robust Mounting Options: Compatible with a wide range of platforms including UAVs like DJI M300/M350 and VTOL systems
PIX4Dmapper
Industry-leading photogrammetry software for professional drone mapping
PIX4Dmapper is the industry-leading photogrammetry software for professional drone mapping, transforming aerial and ground images into accurate, georeferenced maps, 3D models, and orthomosaics.
- Image Capture: Import aerial or ground RGB, thermal, or multispectral images from any camera or drone.
- Photogrammetric Processing: Generate orthomosaics, dense point clouds, and DSMs using advanced algorithms.
- rayCloud Quality Control: Assess project accuracy with tie points, GCPs, and detailed quality reports.
- Automatic Classification: Distinguish surfaces and objects with machine-learning point cloud classification.
- 3D Model Export: Export georeferenced maps and models in GeoTIFF, LAS, OBJ, or DXF formats.
- Batch Processing: Automate workflows for multiple projects and reduce manual intervention.
- Cloud & Collaboration: Sync with PIX4Dcloud for online processing, sharing, and remote collaboration.
PIX4Dsurvey
Surveying software bridging photogrammetry and CAD for engineering-ready vector outputs
PIX4Dsurvey bridges the gap between photogrammetry and CAD by merging point clouds, imagery, and LiDAR in a single project. With advanced vectorization tools, extract essential features—like curbs, building footprints, and catenary curves—with just a few clicks, delivering engineering-ready CAD and GIS datasets.
- Capture Data: Acquire images or point clouds via drone or laser scanner and streamline flights with PIX4Dcapture.
- Import Flexibility: Combine .p4d, .p4m, .las, or .laz files and integrate multiple datasets into one project.
- Optimized Vectorization: Generate TIN models and CAD-ready vector files by extracting key project elements.
- 3D Modeling: Use Smart Grid and terrain classification to create accurate TIN surfaces.
- Volume Measurements: Calculate object and site volumes with intuitive measurement tools.
- Accuracy Assurance: Validate with GCPs, checkpoints, and manual tie points, complete with exportable quality reports.
- Smooth Export: Assign layers and properties, then export to any CAD or GIS software for seamless integration.
DJI Terra
Make the World Your Digital Asset
DJI Terra v5.0 combines its proven photogrammetry engine with next-generation Photorealistic 3D Gaussian Splatting, tighter LiDAR and multispectral workflows, and scalable cluster processing. Pair with Matrice 4E/400, Mavic 3 E/T, or Zenmuse L2 to capture, process, and deliver survey-grade outputs on accessible hardware (≥ 32 GB RAM, ≥ 4 GB GPU VRAM).
- Photorealistic 3D Gaussian Splatting plus mesh models, about 500 photos per hour, city-scale 30 000-image jobs completed significantly faster
- 2D mapping that meets 1:500 standards without GCPs when used with RTK DJI drones; 5 000 images processed in under 2 hours on one workstation or about 80 minutes via cluster
- One-click fusion of Zenmuse L2 LiDAR with RGB for centimeter-level point clouds, meshes, and maps; added support for Matrice 4T/4TD waypoint planning
- Multispectral NDVI/NDRE with automatic prescription maps and optimized Agras spray routes, plus radiometric correction for research-grade outputs
- Cluster reconstruction to scale projects, flexible licensing options including offline operation, runs on Windows with modest GPU and RAM requirements
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Tailings Pond Monitoring & Dam Safety Drones FAQ
How accurate are drones for monitoring tailings ponds and dams?
When flown with RTK or PPK correction and processed with proper workflows, drones can achieve centimeter-level accuracy in elevation and surface models. This precision is critical for measuring freeboard, tracking deposition, and identifying small changes in embankment stability.
How often should tailings dams and ponds be monitored with drones?
Most operators fly monthly or quarterly to meet internal risk protocols and GISTM requirements. High-risk sites or those with active deposition may benefit from weekly monitoring, especially during periods of heavy rainfall or seismic activity.
Can drone data support GISTM and other regulatory frameworks?
Yes. Drone imagery and 3D models provide time-stamped, georeferenced records that align with the Global Industry Standard on Tailings Management (GISTM). These defensible datasets strengthen compliance reporting and help satisfy insurer and stakeholder requirements.
What types of sensors are most useful for tailings monitoring?
Photogrammetry captures detailed surface imagery for volumetrics and structural change detection. LiDAR adds value on vegetated or complex terrain, while multispectral and thermal sensors help detect seepage, vegetation stress, and water saturation.
How long does it take to inspect a tailings storage facility with drones?
Most TSFs can be flown in under two hours, with processing and reporting completed the same day. This enables near real-time decision-making after storms, seismic events, or deposition activities.
What outputs can be generated from drone monitoring?
Deliverables include orthomosaics, DSMs, DTMs, contour lines, point clouds, volumetric reports, and thermal/multispectral mosaics. These outputs integrate with hydrological models, GIS platforms, and audit documentation.
Do drones replace ground-based inspections entirely?
Not entirely. While drones minimize the need for crews to work on unstable slopes or near pond edges, ground inspections may still be necessary for subsurface sampling, instrumentation checks, or engineering verification. Drones complement—not replace—traditional workflows.
What are the main safety benefits of drone-based monitoring?
By removing personnel from unstable ground, pond edges, and heavy equipment areas, drones significantly reduce exposure to slips, falls, drowning, and equipment-related accidents.
Are drones cost-effective compared to third-party inspections?
Yes. Drone programs reduce recurring survey costs, limit downtime, and minimize the need for expensive manned flights or scaffolding setups. Frequent monitoring also helps avoid costly emergency repairs by identifying risks early.
Can drone monitoring be automated for 24/7 or routine coverage?
Yes. Drone-in-a-box systems can be scheduled to fly predefined routes after weather events or at set intervals, providing automated monitoring and alerts without requiring on-site pilots.
Get started
Ready to build your UAS program?
Give us a call and get a full, personalized system built for your specific needs. Our expert team can assess your situation, and recommend the best drone system for your organization.