Sheckler Reservoir Report
Nearby: Carson River Diversion Lahontan Dike
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Sheckler is an Earth-type dam located in Churchill, Nevada, along the Carson River-offstream.
°F
°F
mph
Wind
%
Humidity
Summary
Built in 1954, it stands at a height of 20 feet and has a hydraulic height of 15 feet, with a length of 16,350 feet. The dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, providing water storage of up to 36,000 acre-feet, with a normal storage capacity of 27,000 acre-feet. Managed by the Bureau of Reclamation, Sheckler has a low hazard potential and a moderate risk assessment rating.
Despite its relatively low hazard potential, Sheckler is equipped with an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 40 feet, as well as two slide gates for outlet control. The dam is inspected every three years, with the condition assessment currently listed as not available. While the risk assessment is moderate, the dam does not have an Emergency Action Plan (EAP) in place, raising questions about preparedness for potential emergencies. Overall, Sheckler represents an important water resource infrastructure in Nevada, playing a crucial role in irrigation and recreation activities in the region.
Year Completed |
1954 |
Dam Length |
16350 |
Dam Height |
20 |
River Or Stream |
CARSON RIVER-OFFSTREAM |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Nid Storage |
36000 |
Structural Height |
20 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
20 |
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.
Sheckler
Lahontan Reservoir Nr Fallon