Highland Reservoir Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Highland Reservoir Dam, located in Reno, Nevada, is a crucial local government-owned structure designed by Sierra Pacific Power Company.


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Summary

Completed in 1996, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 23 feet and serves multiple purposes, including water supply. With a storage capacity of 61.4 acre-feet and a surface area of 4.2 acres, the dam plays a vital role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite its fair condition assessment, Highland Reservoir Dam is classified as having a high hazard potential, reflecting the importance of regular inspections and maintenance. The dam lacks a spillway, raising concerns about its ability to handle maximum discharge levels. The presence of a valve outlet gate is the primary means of controlling water flow. With a high risk assessment rating and limited risk management measures in place, the dam poses a significant challenge in terms of emergency preparedness and response.

As part of the Truckee River watershed, Highland Reservoir Dam is situated in a critical location that requires careful monitoring and oversight. The dam's association with the San Francisco District of the US Army Corps of Engineers underscores the need for collaborative efforts in ensuring its safety and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions. Climate enthusiasts and water resource experts alike can find valuable insights in studying the challenges and opportunities presented by this essential infrastructure.

Year Completed

1996

Dam Length

1716

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

TRUCKEE RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

4.2

Hydraulic Height

21

Nid Storage

61.4

Structural Height

23

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.