The operation of conventional tailings storage facilities traditionally requires a recognition that correct water management is vital to their safe operation. Water management of a tailings facility not only involves the superficial water flows but also the interception, collection and treatment of seepage. Control measures may be required to prevent levels exceeding regulatory licences and tailings guidelines. This paper identifies these key water management considerations for conventional tailings storage, as well as the infrastructure required to control ponded water. The intention of this paper is to highlight how problematic it can be to both design and manage conventional storage.