Carter Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Hill Number 2 Dam Boggs And Warren
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Carter Reservoir Dam, also known as American Flat Reservoir, is a privately owned structure located in Washoe, Nevada.
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Summary
Built in 1916, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a length of 350 feet, serving primarily for irrigation purposes. With a storage capacity of 4000 acre-feet, the dam sits on the Sand Creek, contributing to a surface area of 211 acres and a drainage area of 7.6 square miles.
The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled, with a width of 10 feet and a maximum discharge capacity of 25 cubic feet per second. The structure features one valve outlet gate for water release. Despite its age, Carter Reservoir Dam has been deemed to have a low hazard potential and fair condition, with a moderate risk assessment rating. While last inspected in July 2017, the dam is under the jurisdiction of the Nevada Department of Water Resources, ensuring regular inspections, permitting, and enforcement for its safe operation.
Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the historical significance and functionality of Carter Reservoir Dam as a key irrigation infrastructure in the region. With its moderate risk assessment and fair condition, the dam continues to play a crucial role in water management on Sand Creek, providing essential water supply for irrigation, fire protection, and stock purposes. As a privately owned structure, its maintenance and regulation by the Nevada Department of Water Resources ensure the safety and reliability of the dam for years to come.
Year Completed |
1916 |
Dam Length |
350 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
SAND CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
211 |
Hydraulic Height |
6 |
Drainage Area |
7.6 |
Nid Storage |
4000 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
10 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Sf Pit R Nr Likely Ca
|
7cfs |
Mahogany Creek Near Summit Lake
|
2cfs |
Pit R Nr Canby Ca
|
63cfs |
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.
Carter Reservoir Dam