Fernley Pond Dam #1 Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Fernley Pond Dam #1, located in Lyon, Nevada, serves as a vital resource for fish and wildlife preservation, as well as recreational activities.
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Summary
Constructed in 1954, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet and has a structural height of 25 feet. With a normal storage capacity of 910 acre-feet and a maximum storage capacity of 2300 acre-feet, the dam covers a surface area of 276 acres and has a drainage area of 0.5 square miles.
Despite its low hazard potential, Fernley Pond Dam #1 is currently in poor condition as of the last assessment in June 2017. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 60 feet and two other controlled outlet gates. Its maximum discharge capacity is 600 cubic feet per second, making it a crucial component of the Fernley Sink-Tr stream. As a state-regulated structure, the Nevada Department of Water Resources oversees the inspection, permitting, and enforcement of regulations to ensure the safety and integrity of the dam.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Fernley Pond Dam #1 presents an opportunity to explore the intersection of infrastructure, environmental conservation, and recreational use. As efforts to improve the dam's condition and risk management measures continue, it remains a key feature in sustaining the local ecosystem and providing essential water resources for the community. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, this dam serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible water resource management in the face of changing climate conditions.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
5278 |
Dam Height |
23 |
River Or Stream |
FERNLEY SINK-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
276 |
Hydraulic Height |
20 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
2300 |
Structural Height |
25 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
25 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Truckee R At Wadsworth
|
351cfs |
Truckee Ca Nr Wadsworth
|
157cfs |
Truckee Ca Nr Hazen
|
124cfs |
Carson River Blw Lahontan Reservoir Nr Fallon
|
2cfs |
Truckee R Nr Nixon
|
328cfs |
Truckee R Bl Derby Dam Nr Wadsworth
|
344cfs |
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.
Fernley Pond Dam #1
Lahontan Reservoir Nr Fallon