Carico Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Carico Lake Dam, located in Lander, Nevada, is a privately owned structure that serves multiple purposes, including fire protection, stock maintenance, and small fish pond creation.


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Summary

The dam, primarily made of earth with a stone core and rock foundation, stands at a height of 8 feet and spans a length of 100 feet. The reservoir created by the dam has a maximum storage capacity of 1550 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 240 acre-feet, covering a surface area of 100 acres.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Carico Lake Dam is subject to state regulation and inspection, ensuring its safety and proper maintenance. The dam's spillway, although uncontrolled, has a width of 30 feet to manage any potential overflow. The structure is situated on Carico Wash and is under the jurisdiction of the Nevada Division of Water Resources. The dam's condition is assessed as fair, with moderate risk identified, prompting the implementation of appropriate risk management measures.

Overall, Carico Lake Dam plays a vital role in water resource management in the region, providing essential services for fire prevention, livestock support, and recreational activities. With its strategic location and functional design, the dam serves as a key asset for the community, highlighting the importance of sustainable water infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions.

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

8

River Or Stream

CARICO WASH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

100

Drainage Area

28.5

Nid Storage

1550

Outlet Gates

None - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

8
       
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.