Summary
Standing at 18 feet high with a hydraulic height of 16 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 60 acre-feet and a normal storage of 50 acre-feet. The dam, completed in an unknown year, also serves fire protection, stock, and small fish pond purposes in addition to irrigation.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Grass Valley Dam received an unsatisfactory condition assessment during its last inspection in July 2017. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 20 feet and one valve outlet gate. It has seen modifications in 1994 to improve its hydraulic capabilities. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam is under the jurisdiction and regulation of the Nevada Division of Water Resources.
As a key structure in the region's water resource management, Grass Valley Dam plays a crucial role in providing irrigation water to the area. Climate and water resource enthusiasts can appreciate the dam's design, purpose, and the ongoing efforts to ensure its safety and functionality in the face of potential risks and hazards.
Years Modified |
1994 - Hydraulic |
Dam Length |
100 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
GRASS VALLEY CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
10 |
Hydraulic Height |
16 |
Drainage Area |
16.5 |
Nid Storage |
60 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Outlet Gates |
Valve - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
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.
Grass Valley Dam