Crystal Springs Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Crystal Springs Dam, located in Nye, Nevada, is a federal-owned structure designed by Spring Meadows, Inc.


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Summary

and operated by the Fish and Wildlife Service. Completed in 1970, this earth dam stands at a height of 30 feet and has a hydraulic height of 27 feet, serving a primary purpose as a Fish and Wildlife Pond. With a normal storage capacity of 1102 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 2126 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a crucial role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with the last inspection conducted in November 2018. The risk assessment for Crystal Springs Dam is moderate (3), highlighting the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance efforts to ensure its structural integrity and safety. With state regulation and inspection in place, including enforcement by the Nevada DWR, the dam continues to play a vital role in water management and conservation efforts in the Carson Slough -TR river system.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway type with a width of 665 feet and other controlled outlet gates. With a surface area of 128 acres and a drainage area of 5.27 square miles, the dam provides essential habitat for fish and wildlife in the region. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, understanding the critical role that structures like Crystal Springs Dam play in maintaining ecological balance and safeguarding water resources is essential for sustainable conservation efforts in Nevada.

Years Modified

2013 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1970

Dam Length

4350

Dam Height

30

River Or Stream

CARSON SLOUGH -TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

128

Hydraulic Height

27

Drainage Area

5.27

Nid Storage

1926

Structural Height

30

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled

Hazard Potential

Low

Nid Height

30
       
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.