Equestrian Detention Basin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 6, 2025

The Equestrian Detention Basin Dam, located in Henderson, Nevada, serves as a crucial flood risk reduction structure along the Las Vegas Wash.


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Summary

Designed by Poggemeyer Design Group Inc. and completed in 1997, this earth dam stands at a height of 23 feet with a hydraulic height of 12 feet. With a total length of 900 feet and a storage capacity of 409 acre-feet, the dam plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential flooding.

Managed by the Nevada Department of Water Resources, the Equestrian Detention Basin Dam is subject to regular inspections to ensure its fair condition and high hazard potential are monitored effectively. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and outlet gates, with a maximum discharge capacity of 39,100 cubic feet per second. Despite its moderate risk assessment rating, the dam continues to play a critical role in mitigating flood risks in the region.

As a key component of flood risk reduction efforts in Clark County, the Equestrian Detention Basin Dam stands as a testament to the importance of effective water resource management and infrastructure development in mitigating the impacts of climate change. Its strategic location and design demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding communities and enhancing resilience in the face of potential environmental challenges.

Year Completed

1997

Dam Length

900

Dam Height

23

River Or Stream

LAS VEGAS WASH-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Hydraulic Height

12

Drainage Area

7.2

Nid Storage

409

Structural Height

19

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

23
       
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.