Middle Lindsey Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Middle Lindsey is a private dam located in Nevada, California, along Lindsey Creek.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Built in 1870 for hydroelectric purposes, this earth dam stands at a height of 8.5 feet and has a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet. With a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and inspected regularly to ensure its safety and compliance with state regulations.

Despite its age, Middle Lindsey continues to play a crucial role in water resource management, providing a storage capacity of 120 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 450 cubic feet per second. The dam's uncontrolled spillway and moderate risk assessment highlight the importance of ongoing maintenance and monitoring to mitigate potential hazards. With its location in a picturesque setting and historical significance, Middle Lindsey serves as a reminder of the intersection between human ingenuity and the natural environment.

As a key piece of infrastructure in the region, Middle Lindsey represents a blend of history, technology, and environmental stewardship. Managed by private owners and regulated by state and federal agencies, the dam showcases the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions. Its presence along Lindsey Creek is a testament to the enduring impact of human intervention on the natural landscape, as well as a reminder of the ongoing need for sustainable practices in safeguarding our water resources for future generations.

Year Completed

1870

Dam Length

335

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

Lindsey Creek

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

23.9

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

0.4

Nid Storage

120

Structural Height

8.5

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

9
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.

Hazard Potential Classification

High
Dams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.