Nyrstar Retention Basin

Nyrstar Zinc Refinery Retention Basin

Morgan Contractors completed work on a retention basin at Clarksville’s Nyrstar zinc refinery during summer 2016. Morgan Contractors constructed the lined retention pond, which included extensive grading to ensure proper storm water runoff.

The Nyrstar smelter, commissioned in 1978, is the only primary zinc producer in the United States. The retention basin collects storm water runoff from the zinc refinery to help maintain the area’s water quality.

Due to the need for the intake and discharge of large amounts of water for the smelter’s operations, the refinery is located adjacent to the Cumberland River.

Morgan’s role in the project included:

• Site preparation

• Terrain leveling and grading

• Culvert installation

• Drainage swale installation

• Trenching

• Storm water runoff management