Tenneco Mill Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Lake No 4 Dam Horseshoe Dam
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
The Tenneco Mill Pond Dam, located in Nye, Nevada, serves as a critical structure for tailings management along the Armagosa River.
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Summary
This private dam, primarily constructed of earth and stone, stands at 18 feet tall with a hydraulic height of 14 feet. It spans a length of 1300 feet and has a storage capacity of 72 acre-feet. Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment in 2018 indicated that it was unsatisfactory, with a moderate risk rating.
The dam, regulated by the Nevada Department of Water Resources, features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 60 feet and an outlet gate for controlled release. With a history of modifications in 1992 to improve hydraulic and structural components, the Tenneco Mill Pond Dam requires regular inspections every five years to ensure its integrity. The dam's risk management measures and emergency action plan status are currently unknown, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate potential risks and safeguard the surrounding environment and communities.
Water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the Tenneco Mill Pond Dam can appreciate its unique role in managing tailings and water flow along the Armagosa River. As a privately owned structure with state jurisdiction and regulatory oversight, the dam's design and construction reflect a balance between operational needs and environmental considerations. With a focus on risk assessment and condition monitoring, stakeholders can work together to ensure the dam's continued safety and functionality for years to come, promoting sustainable water resource management in the region.
Years Modified |
1992 - Hydraulic, 1992 - Structural |
Dam Length |
1300 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
ARMAGOSA RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
5 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
1 |
Nid Storage |
72 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
18 |
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.
Tenneco Mill Pond Dam