Peavine Creek Upper Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Peavine Creek Upper Dam, located in Reno, Nevada, is a key infrastructure designed by the USDA SCS in 1960 for flood risk reduction along the Peavine Creek.


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Summary

This earth dam stands at a height of 74 feet, with a hydraulic height of 67 feet, and a structural height of 66 feet. With a length of 1544 feet and a storage capacity of 380 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in managing water flow in the region.

The dam's spillway, with a width of 80 feet, is uncontrolled, and it has one uncontrolled outlet gate. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment as of June 2021 was deemed fair. The dam is under the jurisdiction of the Nevada DWR, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its safety and functionality. With a moderate risk assessment rating, the Peavine Creek Upper Dam continues to serve as a vital structure in mitigating flood risks and protecting the surrounding area.

Water resource and climate enthusiasts will find the Peavine Creek Upper Dam to be an intriguing example of engineering ingenuity in managing water resources. Its presence along the Peavine Creek not only helps in flood risk reduction but also contributes to the overall water management efforts in Washoe County, Nevada. As a state-regulated dam with a significant storage capacity, the dam's design and structural integrity are key factors in safeguarding the local community and environment from potential hazards.

Year Completed

1960

Dam Length

1544

Dam Height

74

River Or Stream

PEAVINE CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

15.7

Hydraulic Height

67

Drainage Area

2.3

Nid Storage

380

Structural Height

66

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

74
       
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.
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