Eldorado Canyon Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 5, 2025
Eldorado Canyon Dam, located in Lyon, Nevada, serves as a vital infrastructure for irrigation and water supply in the region.
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Summary
The dam, primarily constructed for agricultural purposes, stands at a height of 60 feet with a hydraulic height of 55 feet, utilizing earth and stone as core types and foundations. With a storage capacity of 570 acre-feet and a normal storage of 230 acre-feet, the dam plays a crucial role in water management for Eldorado Canyon Creek, covering a surface area of 25 acres and serving a drainage area of 53 square miles.
Despite its importance, Eldorado Canyon Dam is marked by high hazard potential and poor condition assessment, underscoring the need for regular inspections and maintenance. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 50 feet and a single slide (sluice gate) outlet gate. However, the risk assessment for the dam is moderate, rated at 3, prompting the implementation of risk management measures to ensure the safety and stability of the structure. With the last inspection conducted in June 2021 and a frequency of one inspection per year, the dam's regulatory oversight falls under the purview of the Nevada Division of Water Resources.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the state of Eldorado Canyon Dam offers a compelling case study on the intersection of infrastructure, water management, and environmental stewardship. By understanding the complexities and challenges faced by this essential water system, stakeholders can work towards sustainable solutions that balance the needs of agriculture, the community, and the natural environment. As we navigate the impacts of climate change and increasing water demands, the story of Eldorado Canyon Dam serves as a reminder of the critical role that these structures play in shaping our water future and the importance of proactive risk management to ensure their long-term resilience.
Dam Length |
470 |
Dam Height |
60 |
River Or Stream |
ELDORADO CANYON CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
25 |
Hydraulic Height |
55 |
Drainage Area |
53 |
Nid Storage |
570 |
Structural Height |
53 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock, Soil |
Nid Height |
60 |
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.
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