Yerington Mill Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Yerington Mill Dam, located in Lyon County, Nevada, is a privately owned earth dam primarily used for tailings storage.


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Summary

Standing at a height of 90 feet and with a length of 100 feet, the dam has a storage capacity of 1,166 acre-feet and a surface area of 100 acres. The dam, regulated by the Nevada Division of Water Resources, is considered to have a significant hazard potential and a high risk assessment rating.

The dam does not have a spillway and features one controlled outlet gate. Despite not having a condition assessment rating, the dam is subject to regular inspections, with the last one conducted in November 2021. With a risk management plan in place and a designated emergency action plan, the Yerington Mill Dam is equipped to respond to any potential threats and ensure the safety of surrounding areas in case of emergencies.

Enthusiasts interested in water resources and climate will find Yerington Mill Dam to be an intriguing case study due to its unique design and purpose. The dam's location along the Walker River-OS and its significant hazard potential make it a focal point for ongoing monitoring and risk management efforts. As a privately owned structure, the dam plays a critical role in local water management and underscores the importance of effective regulatory oversight and emergency preparedness in safeguarding water resources and surrounding communities.

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

90

River Or Stream

WALKER RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

100

Drainage Area

0.2

Nid Storage

1166

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

90
       
Seasonal Comparison

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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.