Cold Springs Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: January 11, 2026

Cold Springs Dam, located in Nye County, Nevada, is a state-regulated structure designed primarily for fish and wildlife pond purposes.


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Summary

Completed in 1980, this earth dam stands at a height of 16 feet and has a hydraulic height of 11 feet, providing a storage capacity of 1,210 acre-feet. The dam, situated on the White River, serves as a recreational area and covers a surface area of 305 acres.

With a low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Cold Springs Dam has an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 400 feet. The dam has undergone modifications in 1995 to enhance its hydraulic capabilities. The structure is inspected every 5 years, with the last inspection conducted in April 2021. Despite its moderate risk level, the dam meets regulatory guidelines and is equipped with controlled outlet gates.

Cold Springs Dam, managed by the Nevada Department of Water Resources, plays a crucial role in supporting the local ecosystem and providing recreational opportunities for visitors. As a vital component of water resource management in the region, the dam demonstrates the importance of sustainable infrastructure for climate resilience and biodiversity conservation in the face of changing environmental conditions.

Years Modified

1995 - Hydraulic

Year Completed

1980

Dam Length

1620

Dam Height

16

River Or Stream

WHITE RIVER

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

305

Hydraulic Height

11

Drainage Area

860

Nid Storage

1210

Structural Height

14

Outlet Gates

Other Controlled - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

16
       
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.