Gowan Detention South Dam Reservoir Report

Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Gowan Detention South Dam, located in Las Vegas, Nevada, is a crucial infrastructure owned by the local government and regulated by the Nevada Department of Water Resources.


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Summary

The dam serves multiple purposes such as flood risk reduction, fish and wildlife pond, and recreation. With a height of 28 feet and a storage capacity of 1492 acre-feet, this earth dam plays a significant role in managing water resources in the region.

Despite being classified as having a high hazard potential, Gowan Detention South Dam is in fair condition as of the last inspection in May 2021. The dam features an uncontrolled spillway and one outlet gate. While the risk assessment indicates a moderate level of risk, the dam is regularly inspected and meets state regulatory standards. It is situated on the Las Vegas Wash-TR river or stream, contributing to the overall water management system in Clark County, Nevada.

With its strategic location and design, Gowan Detention South Dam not only helps in flood risk reduction but also supports the local ecosystem and recreational activities. As a key component of water infrastructure in the area, the dam demonstrates the importance of sustainable water resource management and climate resilience in the face of changing environmental conditions. For water resource and climate enthusiasts, this dam serves as a fascinating example of how infrastructure plays a vital role in mitigating risks and ensuring water security for communities.

Dam Length

100

Dam Height

28

River Or Stream

LAS VEGAS WASH-TR

Primary Dam Type

Earth

Surface Area

10

Nid Storage

1492

Outlet Gates

Uncontrolled - 1

Hazard Potential

High

Foundations

Rock, Soil

Nid Height

28
       
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.