Spanish Springs Stormwater Detention Facility Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
The Spanish Springs Stormwater Detention Facility Dam in Sparks, Nevada, is a crucial structure designed for flood risk reduction along the Truckee Drain.
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Summary
Completed in 1990, this earth dam stands at a height of 14 feet and has a hydraulic height of 11 feet, with a length of 2335 feet and a storage capacity of 1285 acre-feet. With a surface area of 80 acres and a drainage area of 30 square miles, the dam plays a significant role in managing stormwater runoff and preventing potential flooding in the region.
Despite its high hazard potential, the Spanish Springs Dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of July 2021, with regular inspections and maintenance ensuring its continued functionality. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet and outlet gates including three slide (sluice) gates and one uncontrolled gate. Its risk assessment indicates a moderate risk level, emphasizing the importance of effective risk management measures to safeguard the surrounding community. Overall, the Spanish Springs Dam stands as a critical infrastructure for water resource management and climate resilience in the Washoe County area.
Years Modified |
2000 - Hydraulic |
Year Completed |
1990 |
Dam Length |
2335 |
Dam Height |
14 |
River Or Stream |
TRUCKEE DRAIN |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
80 |
Hydraulic Height |
11 |
Drainage Area |
30 |
Nid Storage |
1285 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 3, Uncontrolled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
14 |
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.
Spanish Springs Stormwater Detention Facility Dam