Esmeralda Project Tails Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 27, 2025

The Esmeralda Project Tails Dam, located in Yerington, Nevada, is a private-owned structure that serves primarily for tailings storage.


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Summary

Completed in 1990, this Earth type dam stands at a height of 88 feet and has a structural height of 93 feet. With a storage capacity of 610 acre-feet, the dam sits on Bodie Creek-TR and covers a surface area of 32.7 acres.

Despite being classified as low hazard potential and in satisfactory condition, the dam has undergone several structural modifications in 1994, 1995, and 2004. With a drainage area of 0.1 square miles, the dam has a normal storage capacity of 590 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 610 acre-feet. The dam lacks a spillway and has one other controlled outlet gate.

Although the Esmeralda Project Tails Dam poses a low risk according to the risk assessment, it is important to note the high risk management measures in place. With the Nevada DWR as the state regulatory agency, the dam is subject to inspections, enforcement, and permitting to ensure its continued safe operation and management.

Years Modified

1994 - Structural, 1995 - Structural, 2004 - Structural

Year Completed

1990

Dam Length

3158

Dam Height

88

River Or Stream

BODIE CREEK-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

32.7

Hydraulic Height

70

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

610

Structural Height

93

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

93
       
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.