Catnip Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Swan Lake Dam Rye Creek Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Catnip Dam, located in Washoe, Nevada, is a federal-owned structure under the jurisdiction of the Nevada Department of Water Resources.
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Summary
Built in 1910, this Earth-type dam stands at a height of 19 feet and spans a length of 270 feet, with a primary purpose of serving as a fish and wildlife pond for the Fish and Wildlife Service. The dam has a storage capacity of 937 acre-feet and covers a surface area of 69 acres, drawing water from Catnip Creek and serving as an essential component of the local ecosystem.
Despite being classified as having a low hazard potential, Catnip Dam is currently in poor condition as of the last inspection in August 2018. The dam features controlled outlet gates and a spillway width of 25 feet, with the Fish and Wildlife Service overseeing its operations, inspections, and regulatory aspects. While the dam plays a crucial role in supporting the surrounding wildlife and ecosystem, its maintenance and rehabilitation are imperative to ensure its continued functionality and safety. Water resource and climate enthusiasts monitoring the state of Catnip Dam are advised to stay updated on any developments regarding its condition and potential risk management measures to protect the local environment and communities.
Year Completed |
1910 |
Dam Length |
270 |
Dam Height |
19 |
River Or Stream |
CATNIP CREEK |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
69 |
Hydraulic Height |
17 |
Drainage Area |
43.5 |
Nid Storage |
937 |
Structural Height |
19 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
19 |
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.
Catnip Dam