Cheyenne Peaking Detention Basin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Cheyenne Peaking Detention Basin Dam, located in North Las Vegas, Nevada, is a crucial piece of infrastructure designed for flood risk reduction along the Las Vegas Wash.


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Summary

Built in 2005 by VTN NEVADA, this earth dam stands at a height of 25 feet with a hydraulic height of 20 feet and a structural height of 15 feet. With a storage capacity of 638 acre-feet, this dam plays a significant role in managing stormwater runoff and protecting downstream areas from potential flooding.

The dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 713 feet and two uncontrolled outlet gates. Despite its high hazard potential, the dam is currently assessed to be in fair condition as of the last inspection in October 2021. With a moderate risk rating of 3, the dam is subject to regular state regulation, inspection, and enforcement by the Nevada Division of Water Resources. Overall, the Cheyenne Peaking Detention Basin Dam serves as a critical infrastructure piece in safeguarding the local community from the impacts of extreme weather events and ensuring water resource management in the region.

As a key component of flood risk reduction in Clark County, the Cheyenne Peaking Detention Basin Dam plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation during heavy rainfall events. With its strategic location and design features, this earth dam effectively manages stormwater runoff and mitigates the risk of flooding along the Las Vegas Wash. As climate change continues to increase the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, the importance of infrastructure like the Cheyenne Peaking Detention Basin Dam in preserving water resources and safeguarding communities becomes more apparent than ever.

Year Completed

2005

Dam Length

4735

Dam Height

25

River Or Stream

LAS VEGAS WASH-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

33.6

Hydraulic Height

20

Drainage Area

71.8

Nid Storage

638

Structural Height

15

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 2

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.