Rye Creek Dam, located in Washoe County, Nevada, is a federal-owned structure managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service. Built in 1961, this earth dam stands at a height of 8 feet and spans a length of 758 feet, creating a fish and wildlife pond for conservation purposes. With a storage capacity of 1587 acre-feet and a drainage area of 29.9 square miles, the dam serves as a vital resource for maintaining aquatic ecosystems in the region.

Despite its low hazard potential, Rye Creek Dam has been assessed to be in poor condition as of its last inspection in 2015. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and a slide gate outlet, with a maximum discharge capacity of 253 cubic feet per second. The risk assessment for the dam is moderate, indicating the need for ongoing monitoring and potential risk management measures to ensure its structural integrity and safety.

As a key component of the local water infrastructure, Rye Creek Dam plays a crucial role in habitat preservation and water management in the area. With its primary purpose as a fish and wildlife pond, the dam serves as a valuable resource for supporting biodiversity and conservation efforts. Continued monitoring and maintenance will be essential to ensure the long-term functionality and safety of this important water resource in Nevada.