Mccarran Airfield Detention Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 14, 2025
Mccarran Airfield Detention Dam, also known as the 7l/25r Extension Detention Basin, is a crucial structure owned by the local government in Las Vegas, Nevada.
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Summary
Completed in 1989, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and stretches 2050 feet in length. Its primary purpose is flood risk reduction, managing the flow of the Las Vegas Wash-TR river or stream to protect the surrounding area from potential flooding.
With a storage capacity of 103 acre-feet, the dam plays a significant role in safeguarding the community against high hazard potential. Despite being classified as having a fair condition assessment, regular inspections are conducted to ensure its structural integrity. In 1995, both hydraulic and structural modifications were made to enhance its performance, contributing to its high risk management rating. While the dam lacks a spillway, it features an uncontrolled outlet gate to manage water discharge during peak flow periods.
Located in Clark County, Nevada, Mccarran Airfield Detention Dam is a vital component of the region's water resource infrastructure. As a climate enthusiast, understanding the significance of this dam in flood risk reduction and water management is essential for appreciating its role in ensuring the safety and resilience of the community in the face of potential natural disasters.
Years Modified |
1995 - Hydraulic, 1995 - Structural |
Year Completed |
1989 |
Dam Length |
2050 |
Dam Height |
10 |
River Or Stream |
LAS VEGAS WASH-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
21.1 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
2.1 |
Nid Storage |
103 |
Structural Height |
10 |
Outlet Gates |
Uncontrolled - 1 |
Hazard Potential |
High |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
10 |
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.
Mccarran Airfield Detention Dam