James Creek Diversion Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

James Creek Diversion Dam, located in Carlin, Nevada, is a private structure designed by SERGENT HAUSKINS & BECKWITH INC.


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Summary

and completed in 1985. This earth dam serves the primary purpose of flood risk reduction on James Creek, with additional benefits including recreation and water supply. Standing at a height of 60 feet and a hydraulic height of 150 feet, the dam spans 785 feet in length and has a storage capacity of 325 acre-feet.

Despite its critical role in flood risk reduction, the dam's condition assessment is rated as poor, with a high hazard potential. The last inspection in October 2021 revealed structural issues, leading to modifications in 1990. With a high risk assessment and limited emergency preparedness measures in place, the dam poses a potential threat to the surrounding area in case of failure. Water resource and climate enthusiasts should closely monitor developments regarding the maintenance and safety of James Creek Diversion Dam to ensure the protection of downstream communities and ecosystems.

Years Modified

1990 - Structural

Year Completed

1985

Dam Length

785

Dam Height

60

River Or Stream

JAMES CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

17.6

Hydraulic Height

150

Drainage Area

15

Nid Storage

325

Structural Height

75

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

150
       
Seasonal Comparison

Weather Forecast

Dam Data Reference

Condition Assessment

Satisfactory
No 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

High
Dams 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.