Chalk Bluff Treatment Plant Phase I Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Chalk Bluff Treatment Plant Phase I Dam, located in Washoe County, Nevada, along the Truckee River, serves as a crucial water supply infrastructure for the city of Reno.


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Summary

Completed in 1995, this earth dam stands at a height of 10 feet and has a storage capacity of 12.3 acre-feet. Despite its relatively small size, the dam plays a significant role in water management and supply for the region.

Maintained and regulated by the Nevada Department of Water Resources, the Chalk Bluff Dam has been assessed to be in fair condition, with a significant hazard potential. The dam features two valve outlet gates and is inspected every three years to ensure its structural integrity and safety. Although the dam does not have a spillway, it is designed to effectively manage water flow and storage, contributing to the overall water resource management efforts in the area.

With a high risk assessment rating, the Chalk Bluff Treatment Plant Phase I Dam underscores the importance of proactive risk management and emergency preparedness in safeguarding water resources and infrastructure in the face of changing climate conditions. As water resource and climate enthusiasts, it is essential to monitor and support the maintenance and regulation of such critical infrastructure to ensure sustainable water supply for communities in the region.

Year Completed

1995

Dam Length

618

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

TRUCKEE RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

0.9

Hydraulic Height

10

Nid Storage

12.3

Structural Height

8

Outlet Gates

Valve - 2

Hazard Potential

Significant

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

10
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds

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Chalk Bluff Treatment Plant Phase I Dam Dog Valley Preview Dog Valley
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Chalk Bluff Treatment Plant Phase I Dam Lookout Preview Lookout