Damonte Ranch Flood Detention Basin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The Damonte Ranch Flood Detention Basin Dam in Reno, Nevada, serves as a crucial infrastructure for flood risk reduction along the Steamboat Creek.


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Summary

Designed by Nimbus Engineers, this private-owned earth dam stands at 10 feet high with a hydraulic height of 4 feet, protecting the surrounding Washoe County area from potential flooding events. With a storage capacity of 365 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 5000 cubic feet per second, this dam plays a vital role in managing water flow and minimizing flood hazards in the region.

Situated within the San Francisco District of the US Army Corps of Engineers jurisdiction, the Damonte Ranch Flood Detention Basin Dam features an uncontrolled spillway with a width of 100 feet and a slide (sluice gate) outlet gate for water release. Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, the dam's fair condition assessment as of July 2021 indicates that it is being maintained effectively. The risk assessment for this structure is moderate, reflecting the ongoing efforts to manage and mitigate potential risks associated with its operation.

Ensuring the safety and functionality of the Damonte Ranch Flood Detention Basin Dam is a top priority, with regular inspections and enforcement by the Nevada Department of Water Resources. As a key component in the flood risk reduction strategy for the region, this earth dam plays a crucial role in protecting the community from flooding events and managing water resources effectively. The collaboration between private ownership, state regulatory agencies, and engineering expertise highlights the importance of sustainable water management practices in mitigating the impacts of climate change on our water resources.

Dam Length

1000

Dam Height

10

River Or Stream

STEAMBOAT CREEK

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

35.5

Hydraulic Height

4

Drainage Area

1000

Nid Storage

365

Structural Height

10

Outlet Gates

Slide (sluice gate) - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Soil

Nid Height

10
       
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.
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Area Campgrounds