Sierra Sage Ponds Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Wet Ravine Dam Lake Buck
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Sierra Sage Ponds Dam, located in Washoe, Nevada, is a local government-owned structure primarily used for recreation purposes.
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Summary
The dam, constructed in 1966, is an earth-type dam with a height of 16 feet and a length of 300 feet, creating a surface area of 5 acres and a max storage capacity of 24 acre-feet. The dam is situated on the Silver Lake-TR river/stream and is regulated by the Nevada Department of Water Resources.
Despite its recreational value, Sierra Sage Ponds Dam poses a high hazard potential according to its inspection reports, with an unsatisfactory condition assessment as of October 2021. The dam has a controlled spillway with a width of 10 feet and is equipped with a valve outlet gate for water release. The risk assessment for the dam indicates a very high risk level. With a history of modifications and regular inspections every 3 years, the dam's safety and maintenance remain a priority for authorities.
As an essential part of the water resource infrastructure in the region, Sierra Sage Ponds Dam serves both recreational and regulatory purposes. Its location in the San Francisco District under Congressional District 02, Nevada, underscores its significance in managing water resources and addressing potential risks associated with dam safety. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the complexities of managing a dam like Sierra Sage Ponds Dam, balancing its recreational benefits with the need for stringent safety measures and regulatory oversight to protect both the environment and the community.
Year Completed |
1966 |
Dam Length |
300 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
SILVER LAKE-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
12 |
Drainage Area |
0.2 |
Nid Storage |
24 |
Structural Height |
16 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Truckee R At Reno
|
430cfs |
Truckee River Nr Mogul
|
416cfs |
Dog Creek At Verdi
|
1cfs |
Hunter C Nr Reno
|
5cfs |
N Truckee Drain At Spanish Springs Rd Nr Sparks Nv
|
2cfs |
Truckee R Nr Sparks
|
387cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo 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
HighDams 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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Lookout Campground
|
||
Lookout
|
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Dog Valley
|
Sierra Sage Ponds Dam