Stanley Ranch Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 15, 2025

Stanley Ranch Dam, also known as Stanley Ranch Irrigation Pond, is a private dam located in Lyon County, Nevada.


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Summary

Built in 1998 by Rice Engineering Inc., this earth dam serves primarily for irrigation purposes, with a storage capacity of 70 acre-feet and a surface area of 5.5 acres. Situated along the Walker River, the dam stands at a height of 25 feet and has a hydraulic height of 22 feet, making it a vital resource for water management in the region.

Despite its low hazard potential and fair condition assessment, Stanley Ranch Dam is regulated by the Nevada Department of Water Resources, with state permitting, inspection, and enforcement in place to ensure its structural integrity and safety. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and a single outlet valve, with a maximum discharge capacity of 17 cubic feet per second. The surrounding area offers recreational opportunities, making it a valuable asset for both water resource management and outdoor enjoyment in the community of Schurz.

With a moderate risk assessment rating, Stanley Ranch Dam remains a crucial component of the local water infrastructure, providing essential irrigation water while also accommodating recreational activities for residents and visitors alike. As part of the San Francisco District's jurisdiction, the dam plays a significant role in water conservation efforts along the Walker River, contributing to the sustainable management of water resources in the region. Its historical significance and engineering design make Stanley Ranch Dam a noteworthy site for water resource and climate enthusiasts interested in the intersection of infrastructure development and environmental stewardship.

Year Completed

1998

Dam Length

2060

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

WALKER RIVER-OS

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

5.5

Hydraulic Height

22

Drainage Area

0.1

Nid Storage

70

Structural Height

19

Outlet Gates

Valve - 1

Hazard Potential

Low

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

25
       
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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.