Upper Holy Lake Reservoir Dam

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The Upper Holy Lake Reservoir Dam, located in Washoe County, Nevada, was completed in 1917 and serves primarily for irrigation purposes. This private dam, standing at a height of 8 feet and with a length of 361 feet, holds a maximum storage capacity of 92 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 31 acres. Situated along Baker Creek, the dam is regulated by the Nevada Department of Water Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and compliance with regulations.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2017 was deemed unsatisfactory, prompting a moderate risk assessment rating. The presence of an uncontrolled spillway, with a width of 14 feet, adds to the risk factor. With a capacity for a maximum discharge of 140 cubic feet per second, the dam is equipped with a single valve outlet gate for water release. While the dam's emergency action plan status and risk management measures are unclear, ongoing monitoring and maintenance are crucial to mitigate potential hazards and ensure the safety of downstream communities and ecosystems.

Enthusiasts of water resources and climate change will find the Upper Holy Lake Reservoir Dam an intriguing subject for study and analysis. Its historical significance, structural design, and operational challenges provide valuable insights into the intersection of human infrastructure with natural water systems. As efforts to address climate-related risks and enhance dam safety continue to evolve, this dam serves as a case study in balancing water resource management for agricultural needs with environmental stewardship and community resilience in the face of changing climatic conditions.