Bassett Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Bassett Lake Dam in Warm Springs, Nevada, is a privately owned structure that serves multiple purposes, including irrigation, fire protection, stock, small fish ponds, and recreation.


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Summary

The dam, with a height of 12 feet and a hydraulic height of 6 feet, holds a normal storage capacity of 300 acre-feet and a maximum storage of 500 acre-feet. Situated on Duck Creek in White Pine County, the dam spans a length of 3660 feet and covers a surface area of 170 acres, with a drainage area of 100 acres.

Despite its low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with the last inspection conducted in May 2019. The dam does not have outlet gates and features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 8 feet. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, with a DSAC (Dam Safety Action Classification) of 3, the dam has not been assigned a DSAC date. Overall, Bassett Lake Dam presents an intriguing case study for water resource and climate enthusiasts, highlighting the complexities and challenges associated with managing and maintaining aging infrastructure in remote locations.

With its unique combination of functions and structural characteristics, Bassett Lake Dam stands as a testament to the vital role of dams in supporting various water management needs in arid regions like Nevada. As climate change continues to impact water resources, the importance of ensuring the safety and reliability of such infrastructure becomes increasingly apparent. The ongoing monitoring and maintenance of Bassett Lake Dam serve as a valuable reminder of the ongoing efforts required to safeguard our water resources and adapt to changing environmental conditions.

Dam Length

3660

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

DUCK CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

170

Hydraulic Height

6

Drainage Area

100

Nid Storage

500

Structural Height

12

Outlet Gates

None - 0

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

12
       
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.