Swan Lake Dam Reservoir Report
Nearby: Catnip Dam Rye Creek Dam
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Swan Lake Dam, located in Washoe, Nevada, is a federal-owned structure managed by the Fish and Wildlife Service.
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Summary
Completed in 1929, the dam stands at a height of 18 feet and has a storage capacity of 15,700 acre-feet. Its primary purpose is irrigation, serving the surrounding area through its control of the FISH AND BADGER CREEKS.
Despite its low hazard potential, Swan Lake Dam is currently assessed as being in poor condition as of the last inspection in August 2018. The dam underwent structural modifications in 1983, and its maintenance and operations are overseen by the Fish and Wildlife Service. With a drainage area of 223.3 square miles and a maximum discharge capacity of 1,140 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a crucial role in water resource management in the region.
As a key infrastructure for irrigation in the area, Swan Lake Dam's condition assessment and risk management measures are essential for ensuring the safety and functionality of the dam. With its historical significance dating back to the early 20th century, continued monitoring and maintenance efforts will be crucial to uphold its role in water resource management and climate resilience in the region.
Years Modified |
1983 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1929 |
Dam Length |
562 |
Dam Height |
18 |
River Or Stream |
FISH AND BADGER CREEKS |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
1330 |
Hydraulic Height |
15 |
Drainage Area |
223.3 |
Nid Storage |
15700 |
Structural Height |
18 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
18 |
Seasonal Comparison
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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.
Swan Lake Dam