Squaw Creek Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 12, 2025
Squaw Creek Dam, located in Washoe County, Nevada, serves primarily for irrigation purposes and also provides fire protection, stock, small fish pond, and recreational opportunities.
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Summary
Built by THEIL ENGINEERING, this earth dam stands at a height of 65 feet with a hydraulic height of 57 feet, stretching 560 feet in length. The dam has a maximum storage capacity of 1450 acre-feet and a normal storage of 1200 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 48 acres and draining from a 58 square mile area.
The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 30 feet, and it features a slide (sluice gate) outlet gate. Despite its significant hazard potential, Squaw Creek Dam's condition assessment as of October 2021 was rated as poor. With a moderate risk level, the dam undergoes inspections every three years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam is under state regulation by the Nevada Division of Water Resources and is situated within Congressional District 02 of Nevada, under the representation of Mark E. Amodei (R).
Given its critical role in irrigation and water resource management in the region, Squaw Creek Dam remains a focal point for climate and water resource enthusiasts. As a privately owned structure with state oversight, the dam's maintenance and safety measures are paramount to its continued operation and the protection of the surrounding community and environment. With ongoing assessments and risk management measures in place, Squaw Creek Dam represents a key infrastructure asset in the sustainable utilization of water resources in Washoe County, Nevada.
Dam Length |
560 |
Dam Height |
65 |
River Or Stream |
SQUAW CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
48 |
Hydraulic Height |
57 |
Drainage Area |
58 |
Nid Storage |
1450 |
Structural Height |
65 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
65 |
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.
Squaw Creek Dam