Charleston Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 29, 2025

Located in Charleston, Nevada, the Charleston Reservoir Dam stands as a vital structure managing the Bruneau River's flow for irrigation purposes since its completion in 1920.


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Summary

This private-owned earth dam, with a height of 16 feet and a length of 270 feet, holds a storage capacity of 500 acre-feet, serving as a critical resource for fire protection, stock, and small fish ponds in the region. Despite its low hazard potential, recent assessments have deemed its condition as unsatisfactory, raising concerns within the community.

The dam's controlled spillway, outlet gates, and hydraulic features underwent modifications in 1963 to enhance its performance and structural integrity, ensuring the safety of downstream areas. However, with a risk assessment rating of very high and a history of unsatisfactory conditions, the dam's management measures and emergency action plans require immediate attention to address potential risks and safeguard the surrounding environment. As climate change intensifies, efficient maintenance and inspection practices are crucial to mitigate any future threats posed by the Charleston Reservoir Dam and ensure its continued functionality for water resource management in the region.

Years Modified

1963 - Hydraulic, 1963 - Structural

Year Completed

1920

Dam Length

270

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

BRUNEAU RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

50

Hydraulic Height

10

Drainage Area

99.4

Nid Storage

500

Structural Height

16

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1, Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

16
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.