Red Rock Detention Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

Located in Las Vegas, Nevada, the Red Rock Detention Dam stands as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along the Red Rock Wash.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

Constructed in 1987 by the USA Corps of Engineers, this earth dam measures 63 feet in height and stretches 4090 feet in length. With a maximum discharge capacity of 110,198 cubic feet per second and a spillway width of 923 feet, the dam serves as a critical defense against potential flooding in the region.

The Red Rock Detention Dam is regulated and inspected by the Nevada Department of Water Resources, ensuring that it meets safety standards and remains in fair condition. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam's risk assessment is considered moderate, with emergency action plans in place. With a storage capacity of 1,860 acre-feet and a surface area of 76 acres, this structure plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from the impacts of extreme weather events and climate variability.

As a significant component of flood management in the region, the Red Rock Detention Dam serves as a testament to the collaborative efforts between local governments and state agencies to mitigate flood risks and safeguard water resources. Its strategic location and design highlight the importance of infrastructure in adapting to the changing climate and ensuring the resilience of communities in the face of natural disasters.

Years Modified

1996 - Hydraulic, 1996 - Structural

Year Completed

1987

Dam Length

4090

Dam Height

63

River Or Stream

RED ROCK WASH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

76

Hydraulic Height

53.5

Drainage Area

55.2

Nid Storage

1860

Structural Height

66

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

66
       
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.