Sunnyside Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 10, 2026

Sunnyside Dam, also known as Lower Adams-McGill Reservoir, is a state-owned structure located in Hiko, Nevada on the White River.


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Summary

Built in 1915 by the Nevada Fish and Game Commission, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a hydraulic height of 7 feet. With a primary purpose of serving as a fish and wildlife pond, the dam also supports irrigation and recreation activities in the area.

The dam has a storage capacity of 4040 acre-feet, with a surface area of 882.1 acres and a drainage area of 840 acres. Its spillway, of uncontrolled type, has a width of 155 feet. Despite a poor condition assessment in 2021, the hazard potential of Sunnyside Dam is considered low, with a moderate risk assessment rating of 3. The dam has undergone modifications in 1961 for structural improvements and has other controlled outlets to manage water flow effectively.

Overall, Sunnyside Dam plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem and providing recreational opportunities while ensuring water resource management and flood control on the White River. With its historical significance and ongoing maintenance efforts, this dam remains a vital infrastructure for water resource and climate enthusiasts in Nevada.

Years Modified

1961 - Structural

Year Completed

1915

Dam Length

2400

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

WHITE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

882.1

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

840

Nid Storage

4040

Structural Height

11

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 7

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

11
       
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.