Wilcox Canyon #1 Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 13, 2025

Wilcox Canyon #1 Dam, located in Washoe County, Nevada, is a private earth dam primarily used for irrigation purposes on Wilcox Canyon Creek.


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Summary

The dam stands at a height of 25 feet with a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a length of 1500 feet. It has a storage capacity of 350 acre-feet, with a normal storage level of 100 acre-feet and a surface area of 20 acres. The dam poses a high hazard potential and has been assessed to be in poor condition as of the last inspection in November 2021.

Despite its poor condition, Wilcox Canyon #1 Dam plays a crucial role in providing water for irrigation, fire protection, stock, small fish ponds, and recreation in the area. The dam is regulated and inspected by the Nevada Department of Water Resources, ensuring compliance with state regulations and enforcement measures. The dam's spillway type is uncontrolled with a width of 2 feet, and it is equipped with a slide gate for outlet control. The dam was last modified structurally in 1998 to enhance its stability.

Overall, Wilcox Canyon #1 Dam serves as a vital water resource infrastructure in the region, despite its high hazard potential and poor condition. With proper risk management measures in place and regular inspections, the dam continues to support agricultural activities and other water-related needs in Washoe County. Efforts are ongoing to maintain the dam's safety and functionality to ensure its long-term sustainability and resilience in the face of changing climate conditions.

Years Modified

1998 - Structural

Dam Length

1500

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

WILCOX CANYON CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

20

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

5.2

Nid Storage

350

Structural Height

25

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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.