Summary
The earth dam stands at a height of 8 feet and has a structural height of 10 feet, with a length of 6000 feet. It has a normal storage capacity of 130 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 1720 acre-feet, serving as a crucial water resource for the area.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam is rated as fair in condition assessment, with the last inspection conducted in September 2021. The risk assessment for Big Five Dam indicates a very high risk level, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and risk management measures. The dam's spillway, with a width of 35 feet, is of the controlled type, ensuring controlled water release during periods of high flow.
Owned privately, Big Five Dam is regulated by the Nevada Department of Water Resources and undergoes regular inspections and enforcement. With its historical significance and vital role in irrigation, the dam remains a key infrastructure for water resource management in the region, providing water for agricultural activities and contributing to the sustainability of the local ecosystem.
Years Modified |
1955 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1915 |
Dam Length |
6000 |
Dam Height |
8 |
River Or Stream |
HUMBOLDT RIVER-OS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
787 |
Hydraulic Height |
6 |
Drainage Area |
999 |
Nid Storage |
1720 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 4 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Big Five Dam