Mason Valley Refuge North Pond Dam Reservoir Report
Last Updated: December 13, 2025
Mason Valley Refuge North Pond Dam, located in Lyon County, Nevada, is a state-regulated structure designed by HLA Engineering & Environmental for the primary purpose of supporting fish and wildlife habitats.
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Summary
Completed in 1997, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a hydraulic height of 14 feet, with a length of 2723 feet. The dam has a storage capacity of 465 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 400 acre-feet, providing vital water resources for the surrounding area.
With a surface area of 180 acres and a drainage area of 0.5 square miles, the dam serves as a critical wildlife habitat while also offering recreational opportunities. The dam's spillway is uncontrolled, with a width of 12 feet, and features two other controlled outlet gates. Despite its fair condition assessment in 2020, the dam has a significant hazard potential, prompting regular inspections and a moderate risk assessment rating. The structure's strategic location along the Walker River-TR contributes to its importance in managing water resources and supporting local ecosystems.
Overall, the Mason Valley Refuge North Pond Dam plays a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance and water resources in the region. It stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts between state authorities, engineers, and environmental agencies in ensuring the sustainability of wildlife habitats and recreational opportunities in the area. The dam's continued monitoring and risk management measures underscore the importance of safeguarding this vital infrastructure for future generations of water resource and climate enthusiasts to appreciate and enjoy.
Year Completed |
1997 |
Dam Length |
2723 |
Dam Height |
16 |
River Or Stream |
WALKER RIVER-TR |
Primary Dam Type |
Earth |
Surface Area |
180 |
Hydraulic Height |
14 |
Drainage Area |
0.5 |
Nid Storage |
465 |
Structural Height |
14 |
Outlet Gates |
Other Controlled - 2 |
Hazard Potential |
Significant |
Foundations |
Soil |
Nid Height |
16 |
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.
Mason Valley Refuge North Pond Dam