North Railroad Detention Basin Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

The North Railroad Detention Basin Dam, located in Boulder City, Nevada, is a crucial structure designed by MWH AMERICAS INC.


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Summary

in 2007 to reduce flood risks along the Unnamed Wash. This earth dam stands at a height of 25.8 feet with a hydraulic height of 19.5 feet, serving its primary purpose of flood risk reduction effectively. With a storage capacity of 121.4 acre-feet and a maximum discharge of 6500 cubic feet per second, the dam plays a vital role in protecting the surrounding area from potential inundation during heavy rainfall events.

The dam, with a spillway width of 450 feet, is classified as having a high hazard potential but is currently in fair condition as of the last assessment in May 2021. The structure features uncontrolled outlet gates and is under the regulatory oversight of the Nevada DWR, ensuring regular inspections and enforcement of safety measures. Despite its moderate risk rating, the North Railroad Detention Basin Dam remains a reliable defense against flooding, safeguarding the community and infrastructure in Clark County, Nevada.

As an essential component of flood risk management in the region, the North Railroad Detention Basin Dam exemplifies the importance of strategic infrastructure to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events and safeguard water resources. With its significant capacity and effective design, the dam stands as a testament to proactive measures taken to address climate-related challenges and protect communities from potential disasters. Its presence underscores the critical role that such structures play in promoting resilience and sustainability in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Year Completed

2007

Dam Length

1290

Dam Height

25.8

River Or Stream

UNNAMED WASH

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

9.7

Hydraulic Height

19.5

Drainage Area

100

Nid Storage

121.4

Structural Height

27.3

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock

Nid Height

27
       
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.