Cat Creek Reservoir Report
Nearby: Black Beauty Rose Creek
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Cat Creek Reservoir, located in the Mineral County of Nevada, is a federal-owned water storage facility primarily designed for water supply purposes.
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Summary
Built in 1932 by the Bureau of Reclamation, this arch-type dam stands at a height of 100 feet and has a storage capacity of 155 acre-feet. The reservoir encompasses a surface area of 7 acres and serves as a critical water source for the surrounding area. Managed by the US Army, the dam is inspected every 4 years with a high hazard potential due to its location.
Situated in the scenic Cat Creek area near Hawthorne Army Depot, this reservoir plays a crucial role in managing water resources and ensuring a reliable water supply for the region. With a spillway width of 50 feet and a maximum discharge of 375 cubic feet per second, the dam is designed to handle potential overflow events. Despite being regulated by the US Army, the overall risk assessment for Cat Creek Reservoir is moderate, emphasizing the importance of ongoing monitoring and maintenance to mitigate any potential hazards and ensure the safety of the surrounding community.
In the realm of water resource and climate enthusiasts, Cat Creek Reservoir stands as a testament to the intricate infrastructure and management required to sustainably utilize water for various purposes. With its historical significance and strategic location within the Sacramento District, this reservoir serves as a vital component of the local water supply network, highlighting the importance of effective dam operations and risk management practices in safeguarding water resources for future generations.
Year Completed |
1932 |
Dam Length |
235 |
Dam Height |
100 |
River Or Stream |
Cat Creek |
Primary Dam Type |
Arch |
Surface Area |
7 |
Hydraulic Height |
97 |
Drainage Area |
17 |
Nid Storage |
155 |
Structural Height |
123 |
Outlet Gates |
Slide (sluice gate), Valve |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Rock |
Nid Height |
123 |
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.
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Walker Lake
|
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Walker Lake Recreation Area
|
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Sportsmans Beach Campground
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Sportsmans Beach
|
Cat Creek