Washoe Lake Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Located in Pleasant Valley, Washoe Lake Dam is a private structure regulating the flow of Steamboat Creek in Washoe County, Nevada.


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Summary

Built primarily for irrigation purposes, this masonry dam stands at a height of 12 feet with a hydraulic height of 7 feet and a length of 30 feet. The dam's storage capacity reaches up to 400 acre-feet, serving as a vital water resource for the surrounding area.

Despite its importance, Washoe Lake Dam is categorized as having a high hazard potential with a poor condition assessment. The last inspection in August 2021 revealed the need for improvements to ensure the dam's safety and stability. With a moderate risk rating, there is a pressing need for risk management measures to be implemented to address potential hazards and enhance overall dam safety.

As water resource and climate enthusiasts monitor the state of Washoe Lake Dam, it is clear that ongoing maintenance and risk assessment are crucial to safeguarding the surrounding area from potential flooding and other dangers. With its critical role in irrigation and recreation, the dam's condition and safety must be prioritized to ensure the continued protection of the community and environment it serves.

Dam Length

30

Dam Height

12

River Or Stream

STEAMBOAT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Masonry

Surface Area

45

Hydraulic Height

7

Drainage Area

83.8

Nid Storage

400

Structural Height

12

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 2

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

12
       
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.