Chimney Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 15, 2025
Chimney Dam, located in Humboldt, Nevada, along the Little Humboldt River, stands as a testament to engineering excellence.
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Summary
Built in 1974 by the renowned firm MCCARTER & TULLER INC., this earth dam serves multiple purposes, including irrigation and recreation. With a height of 72 feet and a length of 1110 feet, the dam provides a storage capacity of 66,000 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 2080 acres.
Despite its impressive engineering feats, Chimney Dam currently faces significant hazard potential and poor condition assessment. The last inspection in September 2020 highlighted the need for improvements and maintenance to ensure the safety of the surrounding area. With a moderate risk assessment rating of 3, the dam's emergency action plan and risk management measures require attention and revision to meet guidelines and mitigate potential risks.
As water resource and climate enthusiasts, the story of Chimney Dam serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between human intervention and nature's forces. The dam's critical role in irrigation and recreation underscores the importance of proper maintenance and risk management to safeguard not only the structure but also the communities downstream. As discussions around water resource management and climate resilience continue, Chimney Dam stands as a case study in the ongoing effort to balance human needs with environmental stewardship.
Year Completed |
1974 |
Dam Length |
1110 |
Dam Height |
72 |
River Or Stream |
LITTLE HUMBOLDT RIVER |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
2080 |
Hydraulic Height |
60 |
Drainage Area |
736 |
Nid Storage |
66000 |
Structural Height |
100 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate) - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
100 |
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.
Chimney Dam